What is the CRP lab test?
A CRP lab test is a blood test that measures the amount of C-reactive protein in the blood.
Why is a CRP lab test done?
A CRP lab test is done in order to:
- Diagnose infection and inflammation,
- Diagnose coronary artery disease,
- Diagnose inflammatory bowel disease,
- For monitoring of lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis,
- Diagnose and monitor osteomyelitis.
What does a CRP test measure?
A CRP test measures the level of C-reactive protein in the blood. CRP is a protein produced by the liver. It is sent into the bloodstream in response to inflammation.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
There are no known risks associated with this test.
What raises the CRP level?
Inflammation occurring anywhere in the body raises the CRP level.
Which infections cause high CRP?
Bacterial, fungal, and bone infections raise the CRP level in the blood.
Is a CRP of 30 high?
CRP levels above 30mg/L indicate a serious bacterial infection such as meningitis, sepsis, or pneumonia.
Can CRP be elevated in a viral infection?
CRP levels can be elevated in a viral infection but they don’t go as high as during bacterial infection.
Normal CRP level in blood is < 10mg/L
High sensitivity CRP test value < 2mg/L presents low risk of cardiovascular disease.
High sensitivity CRP test value > 2mg/L presents high risk of cardiovascular disease.
A CRP lab test is done in order to:
- Diagnose infection and inflammation,
- Diagnose coronary artery disease,
- Diagnose inflammatory bowel disease,
- For monitoring of lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis,
- Diagnose and monitor osteomyelitis.
