CRP

About this test

C-reactive protein (CRP) is an "acute phase reactant" that is produced by the liver and starts to circulate within the blood within hours following inflammation (tissue injury). This inflammation can be caused by trauma or a heart attack, autoimmune diseases, and bacterial infection.

The level of CRP increases rapidly in the blood and is often used to help with the diagnosis of acute conditions, and also to monitor chronic conditions with an inflammatory basis, such as arthritis.

The test must be used in conjunction with other tests and clinical information and does not provide a diagnosis. It measures markedly high levels of CRP in the range of 10-1000mg/L and is helpful with disease processes that cause significant amounts of inflammation.

Elevated levels should require medical examination and further investigations to establish the cause.

Acute conditions where the test can be useful:

• Bacterial infection
• Trauma/injury and post-surgery
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Appendicitis

Chronic conditions where the test can be useful:

• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Arthritis
• Autoimmune diseases like Lupus

Who is this test for?

This test if for people that suspect an infection or high levels of inflammation in their bodies.

The CRP test is usually done on suspicion of an acute inflammatory response either following trauma or infection. It is also used to monitor chronic conditions on treatment such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus to assess if treatment is effective.