This handout explains four blood tests related to inflammation: high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), tumor necrosis factor‑alpha (TNF‑α), and interleukin‑6 (IL‑6). It describes what each test measures, why it may be ordered, and important limits to keep in mind. Test results are always interpreted together with symptoms, exam, and other tests.
hCG rises quickly in early pregnancy and can be detected in blood before it appears in urine.
Serial hCG testing can help determine if a pregnancy is progressing normally.
Abnormally low or high levels may signal issues such as ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage risk.
Women who suspect they may be pregnant and want earlier confirmation than a urine test can provide.
Those undergoing IVF, IUI, or other fertility treatments.
Individuals who want to monitor early pregnancy health with quantitative hCG levels.
Anyone with abnormal bleeding or symptoms needing to confirm or rule out pregnancy.
Measures high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation linked to heart disease risk. Important for women to identify early cardiovascular risk, especially when combined with other heart health tests, and to monitor the impact of lifestyle or treatment changes.
Measures a key inflammation marker linked to autoimmune and chronic diseases. Important for women to assess immune activity, identify inflammation-related conditions, and monitor treatment effectiveness.
Measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a test tube, which can indicate inflammation in the body. Important for women to help detect and monitor inflammatory or autoimmune conditions that may affect joints, muscles, or overall health.
Measures a cytokine involved in inflammation and immune response. Important for women to detect chronic inflammation, assess risk for heart disease, and monitor autoimmune or metabolic conditions.
