HIGH SENSITIVE C-REACTIVE PROTEINS (HS-CRP)

The HS-CRP test is a more sensitive type of CRP test. It checks how much C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is present in the blood. CRP is a protein made by the liver in response to inflammation. It is useful for determining a person’s risk for certain cardiovascular diseases such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and peripheral artery disease.  

The HS-CRP test measures the level of CRP in the blood which is a marker of inflammation. Like other tests, it can have positive results that indicate the presence of inflammation. Because of advancements in technology that can detect low levels of CRP, many consider this test to be better than the traditional CRP test. 

The HS-CRP test is usually taken when:  

• Your doctor wants to measure your risk for cardiovascular disease.  
• You have a family history of heart disease or stroke.  
• You have high blood pressure or cholesterol levels.  
• You experience symptoms of cardiovascular disease such as chest discomfort or difficulty breathing.  
• You smoke or have other significant cardiovascular disease risk factors. 

In general, the HS-CRP test is safe with no real dangers attached. Still, there are some shortcomings to the test:  

• Other than cardiovascular reasons such as infection, injury, or autoimmune disorders can raise CRP levels.  
• CRP levels can be affected by ethnicity as African Americans have higher levels of CRP than Caucasians.  
• The test may not accurately assess cardiovascular risk for patients with kidney disease and other chronic conditions. 

These parameters are evaluated in the HS-CRP test:  

• The levels of CRP in the blood (in mg/L);  
• Levels of triglycerides;  
• Levels of LDL (or bad) cholesterol;  
• HDL (or good) cholesterol. 
• Fasting Blood Glucose 
• Hypertension 

The HS-CRP test should also be considered by: 

• Adults with a moderate to severe cardiovascular disease risk 
• People with a family history of heart diseases or cerebrovascular accidents 
• People who smoke or other categories of chronic heart disease 
• Patients with hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, or diabetes mellitus 

Some of the benefits of HS-CRP testing include: 

• Detection of patients at risk of cardiovascular diseases. 
• Assisting in treatment, like prescribing statins or other drugs. 
• Evaluation of treatment response. 
• Motivation for regular exercise and improved nutrition. 

• Cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease, congestive heart failure, and peripheral vascular disease. 
• Some inflammatory diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis. 
• Presence of infection or septicaemia. 

Your HS-CRP test does not require: 

• Preparations like other tests. 
• If possible, fasting for 9 to 12 hours prior to the test is recommended, however, it is not mandatory.  
• Let your doctor know about any medication or supplements that you are currently taking. 

Prerequisites: None  

Eligibility: 5 years and over, both adults and children  

Test Procedure: A blood sample is drawn from the vein in your arm.  

Cautions Before Taking the Test: Refrain from taking medications or supplements which could possibly affect your CRP levels like NSAIDs or corticosteroids.