C reactive protein test (CRP). Purpose and Results
C-reactive protein test (CRP)
The C reactive protein test (CRP) detects an inflammatory response in the blood. what it means and why it’s important to monitor it.
Table of Contents
A C reactive protein test (CRP) is a blood test that checks for infection or inflammation in the body. The liver makes C-reactive protein (CRP) in response to inflammation in the body. The CRP test measures the amount of this protein in the blood.
What is C reactive protein test?
C-reactive proteins (CRPs) are small proteins found in the blood. They are released From liver into the bloodstream as part of the immune system’s response to infections and other injuries. CRPs help fight off bacteria and viruses.
A simple blood test can be done to check the level of reactive protein in your blood. A high level of CRP in the blood can be a sign of infection or inflammation, The test is also used to detect the severity of these conditions and to monitor their treatment.
The C reactive protein test is often performed together with other tests to check for inflammation, such as a white blood cell count and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).
A CRP test can be mistaken for a high sensitivity c reactive protein test. They both measure CRP, but for different purposes.
Protein hs-CRP test detects minute increases in c reactive protein levels. It is used to predict your risk of developing heart disease.
What is it used for?
The blood c-reactive protein measures the amount of a protein called c-reactive protein (CRP) in your blood. CRP is a protein that associated with inflammatory in the body.
So, a high level of c reactive protein in your blood may be a sign of infection or inflammation. Also it could mean that you’re at greater risk for:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Cancer.
- Alzheimer’s disease.
- Pneumonia.
- Sepsis.
- Cardiovascular diseases such as:
- coronary artery disease.
- congestive heart failure.
- peripheral vascular disease.
- cerebrovascular disease.
- Myocardial infarction
c‐reactive protein may also be ordered in people with HIV/AIDS. The test provides information about how well the immune system is doing at fighting inflammation.
When do you have to perform this test?
The blood c reactive protein (CRP Test) is typically ordered in cases of:
- Chest pain.
- Abdominal pain.
- Joint pain.
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
- Fever.
Test Preparation
There are several different ways that you can prepare for the C reactive protein test.
- Fasting for 8 hours before taking the blood sample. This ends food digestion and allows your body to focus on any infection or disease causing inflammation.
- You should also avoid exercise before taking the sample because this can rise the levels of certain proteins in your bloodstream that affect how quickly the CRP will be detected during testing.
- Some medications may have an impact on your results. As a result, inform your doctor about any supplements or medications you use.
What do the results mean?
CRP test results indicate the level of inflammation in your body. However, your test results will not reveal what is causing the inflammation. Your provider will look at your CRP results, as well as the results of other tests, your symptoms, and your medical history, to make a diagnosis.
CRP levels in healthy people are generally very low. Any increase above normal indicates that your body is inflamed.
Inflammation that detected by this test can be caused by infection, injury, or disease. A high level of CRP in the blood can be a sign of inflammation or infection. High levels of CRP can also be indicative of cardiovascular disease.
“Related: BCR ABL1 Test; Purpose and test result“
Are there any risks?
There is very little risk associated with having a CRP test and the results can help provide valuable information about your health.
Related tests
- CCP Antibody Test.
- Procalcitonin Test
- ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) Test.
- Complement Blood Test (CBC).
- Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR).
- Rheumatoid Factor (RF) Test.
In summary, evidence shows that CRP is not only a marker of infection and inflammation but also has a protective role. In conclusion, routine CRP ordering for the detection of bacterial infection in sick children and neonates needs further scrutiny by practicing clinicians.