Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP)

This code represents an abnormally high level of C-reactive protein in the blood, indicating systemic inflammation. CRP is an acute-phase reactant produced by the liver in response to inflammation, infection, or tissue injury. It is a non-specific marker and does not identify the underlying cause of the inflammation.

Assign this code when laboratory results confirm an elevated CRP level and the provider documents this finding. This is often used when the specific cause of the inflammation is unknown or not yet definitively diagnosed. It can also be used to monitor the inflammatory response in various conditions.

• Do not code this if a more specific diagnosis explaining the inflammation is known and documented (e.g., pneumonia, rheumatoid arthritis).
• This code is typically sequenced after the primary condition if the elevated CRP is a manifestation of that condition.
• Ensure the medical record clearly states "elevated C-reactive protein" or provides the lab value with a note indicating it is elevated.