A combined score from hs-CRP and albumin that reflects your body’s overall inflammation balance.
The CRP to albumin ratio (CAR) is a calculated value, not a separate blood test. It combines high-sensitivity CRP, a marker of inflammation, with albumin, a protein that tends to fall during illness.
The formula is: CAR = hs-CRP ÷ albumin, using the same units reported by the lab.
Inflammation pushes CRP up and albumin down, so combining them into one ratio can sharpen the signal compared with either marker alone. CAR has been studied as a prognostic marker in infection, inflammatory disease and some cancers.
A higher ratio reflects more inflammation and lower nutritional or protein reserve, and has been associated with poorer outcomes in hospital settings. A lower ratio is reassuring.
Aniva reads your result against research-backed ranges, not just the lab's wide normal. The reference shown below is specific to this biomarker.
There is no well-established healthy reference range for CAR. It is mainly used as a relative prognostic marker in research and hospital settings, where higher values track with worse outcomes. Interpret as a trend with a clinician rather than against a fixed cutoff.
CAR reflects the limits of both components. CRP rises with any infection, injury or recent illness and is non-specific, while albumin falls with liver disease, kidney protein loss, malnutrition and acute illness. Recent illness can therefore move the ratio for reasons unrelated to a specific condition.
Read with its components, hs-CRP and albumin, and alongside white cell count and the wider clinical picture.
What do my CAR results mean? Higher values usually point to more inflammation or lower protein reserves. Lower values generally reflect less inflammation; context and trends are key.
Do I need to fast? No. A routine, well-hydrated sample taken when you feel well is best.
What can affect the result? Recent illness, strenuous exercise, smoking, steroids, NSAIDs, statins, pregnancy, hydration, and liver or kidney issues can change results.
How often should I test? If tracking inflammation or recovery, consider every 1 to 3 months, or as your clinician advises.
How long do results take? Results are usually ready in about 7 days.
What should I discuss with my clinician? Share symptoms, recent infections, surgeries, medicines, and the trend of hs‑CRP, albumin, and CAR over time.
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