What is high CRP? Why does it rise?

CRP (C-reactive protein) is a protein produced in the liver. 

Our body gives a complex response to situations such as infection, tumors, and trauma. An increase in serum CRP concentration, an increase in body temperature, and an increase in white blood cell count are part of this response. 

The CRP test is used as a parameter in the diagnosis of many diseases and in monitoring the response to treatment.

HOW IS CRP MEASURED?

The CRP concentration in your blood serum is measured by taking a blood sample in the laboratory. The CRP test is not affected by fasting or satiety. Its values do not change during the day and it can be performed at any time. However, since some of the tests that are likely to be performed alongside it require fasting, it is preferably measured while fasting.

WHY IS CRP MEASURED?  

It is requested by a physician to clarify the diagnosis of conditions such as infection, any inflammatory disease, tumor formation or tumor metastasis, and the risk of heart attack and stroke. 

WHAT SHOULD CRP LEVELS BE?

It is low in newborns but rises after a few days to reach adult levels. 

The average serum CRP level in healthy individuals is 1.0 mg/L. With aging, the average CRP value can rise to 2.0 mg/L. In 90% of healthy individuals, the CRP level is below 3.0 mg/L. It is considered that CRP values above 3 mg/L are not normal and that there is an underlying disease, even if there is no clear clinical picture of illness. 

WHAT DOES AN INCREASE IN BLOOD CRP VALUE MEAN?

In healthy individuals, the plasma CRP value is very low. An increase in the CRP value indicates that there is inflammation or infection in the body, a risk of stroke or heart attack, a recently experienced heart attack, tissue death, or a possible tumor. It also gives your physician an idea about the progression of the disease causing the CRP increase. It is not a specific finding in terms of disease diagnosis; that is, a diagnosis cannot be made solely by looking at the elevated C-reactive protein value. To make a diagnosis, findings obtained from other examination methods and tests, including physical examination, are evaluated together. 

HOW DOES THE CRP VALUE DECREASE?

CRP (C-reactive protein) is a marker for the diseases mentioned above. For the CRP value to decrease, the underlying disease must be diagnosed and a treatment plan must be made. When the underlying disease is treated, the CRP value also decreases in response to treatment. There is no drug treatment aimed directly at lowering the CRP value.

Editor's note: This news is for informational purposes only. The news does not contain elements containing information regarding therapeutic health services. For diagnosis and treatment, you must absolutely consult a hospital.