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.

CRP response often occurs before clinical symptoms, including fever. Only traces of CRP, up to 5 mg/L, are found in normal, healthy individuals. After the onset of the acute phase response, CRP concentration increases rapidly and significantly. The concentration begins to rise within 6-12 hours, and the peak is reached within 24-48 hours. A concentration exceeding 100 mg/L is associated with strong stimuli, such as major trauma or severe infection (sepsis).

CRP response may be less pronounced in patients with liver disease. CRP tests are used to identify systemic inflammatory processes; to evaluate antibiotic treatment of bacterial infections; to detect intrauterine infection with accompanying premature rupture of the amniotic sac; to differentiate active and inactive forms of disease with concomitant infection, e.g., in patients with SLE or ulcerative colitis; to monitor rheumatic diseases and evaluate anti-inflammatory treatment; to assess the early stage occurrence of postoperative complications such as wound infection, thrombosis, and pneumonia; to distinguish infection from bone marrow rejection. Postoperative monitoring of CRP concentration can help identify unexpected complications (persistent high or increasing concentration). Measurement of changes in CRP concentration provides useful diagnostic information about the acuteness and severity of the disease. It also allows assessment of the origin of the disease. Persistent high CRP concentration is often a serious prognostic sign indicating an uncontrolled infection.

Recommendations:

• Recommended for disease diagnosis and treatment monitoring as per doctor's instructions.
• Medications and pregnancy can affect test results.
• Fasting for 12 hours is required for the test.