CRP | C reactive protein

C-reactive protein is a classic acute phase protein of inflammatory reactions. It is produced in the liver. CRP concentration increases rapidly during inflammatory processes.

The CRP response often occurs before clinical symptoms, including fever. In normal, healthy individuals, only trace amounts of CRP are detected, up to 5 mg/L. After the onset of the acute phase response, CRP concentration increases rapidly and significantly. The concentration begins to rise within 6-12 hours, reaching a peak within 24-48 hours. Concentrations exceeding 100 mg/L are associated with strong stimuli, such as major trauma or severe infection (sepsis).

The CRP response may be less pronounced in patients with liver diseases. CRP tests are used to identify systemic inflammatory processes; evaluate the treatment of bacterial infections with antibiotics; identify intrauterine infections with accompanying premature rupture of the amniotic sac; differentiate active and inactive forms of disease with concurrent infection, e.g.: in patients with SLE or ulcerative colitis; monitor therapy for rheumatic diseases and evaluate anti-inflammatory treatment; assess the early occurrence of postoperative complications such as wound infection, thrombosis, and pneumonia; differentiate infection from bone marrow rejection. Monitoring postoperative CRP concentration can help identify unexpected complications (persistently high or increasing concentration). Measuring changes in CRP concentration provides valuable diagnostic information about the acuity and severity of the disease. It also allows conclusions about the origin of the disease. Persistently high CRP concentration is often a serious prognostic indicator, suggesting an uncontrolled infection.

Recommendations:

• It is recommended for disease diagnosis and treatment control according to the doctor's instructions.
• Medications and pregnancy can affect test results.
• Fasting for 12 hours is required before taking the test.