What does the C-Reactive Protein - CRP blood test mean? Get a free analysis of your blood test now. Here's what you get with our free analysis:
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation in the body. It's a general marker of inflammation and can be elevated due to various conditions, including infections, autoimmune disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. CRP levels rise rapidly in response to inflammatory stimuli and decrease quickly when inflammation subsides. This test is often used to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease, monitor inflammatory conditions, and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for inflammatory disorders. Elevated CRP levels may indicate a higher risk of heart disease, even when cholesterol levels are normal. It's important to note that CRP is a non-specific marker, meaning it doesn't pinpoint the exact location or cause of inflammation.
A CRP level below the lower range (0.0 mg/L) is not typically a concern. In fact, undetectable or very low CRP levels are generally considered favorable, indicating minimal inflammation in the body. This could suggest a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and other inflammatory conditions. However, it’s important to interpret CRP results in conjunction with other clinical findings and tests, as CRP alone doesn’t provide a complete picture of an individual’s health status.
A CRP level above 3.0 mg/L indicates the presence of significant inflammation in the body. This could be due to various factors, including acute infections, chronic inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease), obesity, or cardiovascular disease. High CRP levels are associated with an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events. In some cases, very high CRP levels (>10 mg/L) might suggest a severe infection or inflammatory condition requiring immediate medical attention. It’s crucial to identify and address the underlying cause of elevated CRP to reduce inflammation and associated health risks.