Why get tested?
To identify the presence of inflammation, to determine its severity, and to monitor response to treatment. Research work suggests a more sensitive form of the test, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), can help assess your risk of heart disease or be more valuable in assessing the very young but currently this test is not widely available.

When to get tested?
When your doctor suspects that you might be suffering from an inflammatory disorder (as with certain types of arthritis and autoimmune disorders or inflammatory bowel disease) or to check for the possibility of infection (especially after surgery)

Sample required?
A blood sample taken from a vein in your arm