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On-the-spot blood hs-CRP testing in points of care.

Expand your customer services with hs-CRP testing.

The Igloo Reader Pro delivers rapid, reliable hs-CRP measurement right at the point of care.


Key takeaways

  • hs-CRP measures low-level inflammation that can influence long-term cardiovascular health
  • It provides additional insight beyond cholesterol and blood sugar tests
  • Testing helps support earlier awareness and prevention-focused care



Learn more about our Starter Kit for Pharmacies >


What is hs-CRP?

C-reactive protein (CRP) is produced by the liver in response to inflammation anywhere in the body. Traditional CRP testing is designed to detect higher levels seen in infections or active inflammatory disease.

High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) uses a more precise assay that detects much lower concentrations, allowing clinicians to assess chronic, low-grade inflammation associated with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk - even in otherwise healthy individuals.


Why is hs-CRP important? 

Inflammation plays a central role in plaque formation and instability within blood vessels. Elevated hs-CRP levels are consistently associated with a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events, largely independent of cholesterol levels.

hs-CRP is most useful for risk refinement, particularly in people with borderline or intermediate cardiovascular risk, helping to develop and evaluate the efficacy of prevention strategies alongside standard risk markers.


Important note about hs-CRP:

hs-CRP testing detects inflammation but does not pinpoint its cause. Elevated hs-CRP levels may result from infections, injuries, or other non-cardiac conditions. It’s important to advise customers that a high result doesn’t automatically indicate heart disease and recommend follow-up with a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and management.

Why hs-CRP testing matters in pharmacy?


Measuring hs-CRP helps to evaluate the presence of low-grade inflammation linked to cardiovascular risk, helping identify individuals who may benefit from early lifestyle or medical interventions. This allows pharmacies and other health-focused businesses to offer timely testing and personalized guidance right at the point-of-care.

Benefits of offering hs-CRP testing in pharmacies:

  • Expand the range of preventive health and wellness services available onsite.
  • Identify customers with elevated inflammation who may be at higher cardiovascular risk.
  • Strengthen customer relationships through proactive, data-driven health support.
  • Create new revenue opportunities by connecting testing with tailored advice and relevant products.


How is hs-CRP measured?


  • Sample: Small blood sample.
  • Units: mg/L.


Because inflammation levels can fluctuate, clinicians often repeat testing - especially if results are elevated - and avoid testing during acute illness or known infection to determine a stable baseline.

hs-CRP testing with Igloo Reader Pro


hs-CRP can be measured from a small blood sample using the Igloo Reader Pro in pharmacies or other point-of-care settings. Results can be tracked digitally and reviewed alongside lipid and glucose-related markers like HbA1c to support more complete cardiovascular risk assessment.

Benefits for pharmacies using Igloo Reader Pro:

  • Provide rapid, high-quality hs-CRP testing at the point-of-care.

  • Expand preventive cardiovascular screening services.

  • Support early identification of inflammatory risk.

  • Integrate seamlessly into everyday pharmacy workflows.

Always follow device instructions for use (IFU) for proper testing procedure and results evaluation.

What are normal hs-CRP values?


  • Less than 1.0 mg/L indicates low risk.

hs-CRP should always be interpreted alongside other cardiovascular risk factors such as cholesterol levels, lipoprotein(a), apolipoprotein B, blood pressure, blood sugar, smoking status, and family history. Values may also rise temporarily due to infection or injury, so repeat testing when well may be appropriate.


What are high hs-CRP levels?


  • 1.0 to 3.0 mg/L indicates average risk.
  • above 3.0 mg/L indicates high risk.


Cardiovascular risk is often determined by averaging two hs-CRP test results taken about two weeks apart. Levels above 3.0 mg/L may indicate an increased risk of a first or repeat heart attack. Repeating the test helps ensure accurate assessment and supports better-informed care decisions.


It’s important to note that reference ranges and decision thresholds for hs-CRP may vary by laboratory, device, and manufacturer instructions for use (IFU). Results should always be interpreted within the clinical context, considering age, sex, recent illness, and other health factors. When values fall outside the expected range, repeat testing and consultation with a healthcare professional are recommended.


What factors influence hs-CRP?


Temporary infections, injuries, surgery, chronic inflammatory diseases, obesity, and smoking can all raise hs-CRP levels. This is why repeat testing during periods of wellness is recommended when results are elevated.

Why pharmacies should offer hs-CRP testing?


Implementing hs-CRP testing with the Igloo Reader Pro allows pharmacies and healthcare providers to quickly and accurately assess low-grade inflammation linked to cardiovascular risk. This supports earlier identification of individuals who may benefit from preventive interventions and personalized care plans. By incorporating this accessible testing solution, pharmacies can improve patient outcomes, build stronger community trust, and expand their service offerings through comprehensive cardiovascular risk management.


Learn more about the Pharmacy Starter Kit >


Literature

Disclaimer


This information is educational and does not qualify for a medical advice. Always use local reference ranges and consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

Frequently asked questions

Here are some common questions about diagnostics for pharmacies and health-related businesses.

hs-CPR measures low levels of C-reactive protein in the blood, indicating the presence of low-grade inflammation that may be linked to cardiovascular risk.

Yes. Capillary (fingerprick) point-of-care testing is used for screening and monitoring.

For diagnosis, confirm a capillary result with a venous lab test.

The Igloo Reader Pro enables rapid hs-CRP testing using a small capillary blood sample, with results available in minutes. It is designed for easy integration into pharmacy workflow, helping to deliver timely, accurate information to their customers.

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