C-REACTIVE PROTEIN

The C-reactive protein (CRP) test is a type of blood test employed to evaluate the level of inflammation occurring in the body. The level of CRP is raised due to synthesis by the liver as a part of the acute phase response. This test is useful because infections can be detected, monitoring for chronic disease progression is possible, and evaluating risk of heart-related problems is well established. CRP measurement can assist physicians in determining the existence or strength of inflammation and thus contribute in diagnosing and managing the course of multiple disorders. 

The C-Reactive Protein Test determines the levels of C-reactive protein present in the bloodstream. CRP is categorized as an acute-phase reactant which is elevated due to inflammation, injures or infections. High density of CRP suggests inflammation and this can range from minor infection to chronic inflammation or acute conditions which can include heart disease. 

The CRP test is normally performed whenever a person presents with acute or chronic inflammation like a fever, fatigue, unintentional weight reduction or signs of infection. Also it is done to assess arthritic or autoimmune disorders or post operative procedures to detect any possible infections. In addition, it may be performed with some other procedures to check the risks pertaining to the heart. 

The only crp test risks are associated with the pricking of the skin and they include mild bruises and infections. The pricking crosses the blood veins which results in infection so the risk is there but it is slight. Some other limitations include the fact that the increases in crp levels are markers of inflammation but they are unable emphasize where and why the inflammation takes place. Besides this noted variables when present, can led to varied results in CRP values including exercise and smoking and other medical drugs. 

The blood level of C-reactive protein is the main parameter evaluated in the CRP test. Raised levels of C-reactive protein may suggest inflammation stemming from infections or autoimmune diseases, among others. High sensitive versions of the test (hs-CRP) are able to detect much lower levels of the protein and are specifically for monitoring the risk for cardiovascular disease. 

The CRP test is useful for patients with signs of inflammation or infection, a persistent fever or fatigue for instance. Patients with certain autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and other chronic inflammatory diseases need to perform these tests regularly in order to assess the activity of the illness. In addition to that, patients with greater risk of having heart problems, like people with diabetes, obesity, or a family history of heart disease may be advised to have a high sensitivity CRP test. 

The most important advantage of CRP Testing is the quick detection of inflammation. This invariably leads to timely diagnosis and treatment of diseases. It helps in understanding the causative factors of inflammatory processes and determining treatment strategies. Additionally, in patients with chronic inflammatory or cardiovascular disease, periodic CRP measurement helps in effective treatment monitoring and progression of the disease. 

The CRP test can be helpful in supporting the definitively made diagnosis of several conditions associated with inflammation including the following ones: 

• Acute infections, such as caused by bacterial or viral agent 
• Chronic inflammatory illness such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, etc. 
• As a method of diagnosing CRP in patients with cardiovascular diseases, high sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) is used. 
• Infections or complications of conditions done surgery and are under treatment. 
• Auto immune diseases such as MPO-ANCA vasculitis, etc. 

Prerequisites: In order to perform the CRP test, there are no particular requirements. Fasting is not a requirement and the normal course of medications can be adhered to unless advised differently by a physician. 

Eligibility: Any person whose healthcare provider suggests them (especially patients presenting with symptoms of inflammation or having cardiovascular risk) is qualified for the test. 

Procedure Done For The Test: The test requires just a simple procedure of drawing blood from the patient. In most cases, the blood sample is obtained from a vein in the elbow flexure using an aseptic small needle. It only takes a matter of minutes to complete the entire operation. 

Caution Before The Test: Patients should also inform their health care providers regarding any medications they are on since some medications may interfere with the levels of CRP.