C Reactive Protein Cardio hs-CRP (hs-CRP Test)

Hs-CRP (high- sensitivity C-reactive protein) test

It is a simple blood test which is used to measurelow levels of CRP in your body. CRP is a protein which is made by liver whenever there is inflammation in the body. Its level is thus raised in blood whenever there is inflammation going on in the body

The presence of persistent low level of inflammation causes development of a condition called atherosclerosis. In this condition there is narrowing of blood vessels especially of heart due to deposition of cholesterol and other lipids. This narrowing of coronary and other blood vessels lead to development of cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks, angina, stroke, sudden cardiac death and peripheral vascular disease.

Therefore, this test measures even very low level of CRP which indirectly detects persistent low levels of inflammation. Thus, Hs-CRP test is useful for assessment of risk of cardiovascular disease in the future. The hs-CRP test is often recommended for individuals with diabetes, hypertension, obesity, a smoking history, or a family history of heart disease. The results should always be interpreted along with lipid profile findings and medical history. Once you are aware of the medical report, you need to maintain a healthy lifestyle; regular exercise and timely medical check-ups can help reduce future cardiovascular risk.

Why is hs-CRP test prescribed?

Your health care provider may prescribe this test to find out your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. This test is usually done along with lipid profile and other cardiac risk markers like lipoprotein-associated phopholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) test to find out the risk status. This test is especially done in those individuals who have risk factors for developing cardiovascular diseases like:

• Family history of cardiovascular disease

• High cholesterol levels

• Hypertension

• Diabetes

• Overweight

• Sedentary lifestyle

• smoking

Procedure and prerequisites

The sample for hs-CRP test is taken from blood (serum) by inserting a small needle into vein of your arm .A small amount of blood is then collected in test tube or vial. You may feel some pain due to needle prick. No particular preparation is needed for this test unless you are undergoing other blood tests such as lipid profile which require overnight fasting. Hs-CRP test should be done at the time when there is absence of any recent infection, injury, or illness.

Reference range

This test measures CRP from 0.5 to10 mg/L

Low risk -<1.0 mg/L

Moderate risk-1.0 to 3.0 mg/L

High risk->3.0 mg/L

The reference range may vary from laboratory to laboratory. Consulting a doctor is highly recommended; they can interpret the result correctly and advise on medication.