Crp rate high. Understanding High CRP Levels: Causes, Symptoms, and Implications

20.06.202313.06.2023 by alexxlab

What is C-reactive protein and why is it important. How do doctors measure CRP levels in the body. What are the normal ranges for CRP and what can cause elevated levels. What symptoms may indicate high CRP levels. How do doctors interpret CRP test results.

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What is C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and Its Significance?

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance produced by the liver in response to inflammation in the body. It serves as a crucial biomarker for various inflammatory conditions, ranging from acute infections to chronic diseases. Understanding CRP levels can provide valuable insights into a person’s overall health status and potential underlying medical issues.

CRP tests measure the amount of this protein in the blood, offering healthcare providers a window into the body’s inflammatory processes. High levels of CRP can indicate the presence of inflammation due to acute or chronic conditions, making it an essential diagnostic tool in modern medicine.

The Role of CRP in the Body

CRP plays a vital role in the body’s immune response. When inflammation occurs, whether due to infection, injury, or other causes, the liver increases its production of CRP. This protein then circulates in the bloodstream, helping to activate the complement system and enhance the body’s ability to fight off pathogens or repair damaged tissues.

Is CRP specific to a particular type of inflammation? No, CRP is a general marker of inflammation and can be elevated in response to various conditions. This non-specificity makes it a useful screening tool but often requires further investigation to determine the exact cause of elevated levels.

Common Causes of Elevated CRP Levels

A wide range of inflammatory conditions can lead to increased CRP levels in the blood. Understanding these potential causes is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Some of the most common reasons for elevated CRP include:

Autoimmune disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus)
Inflammatory bowel diseases (e.g., Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
Cardiovascular conditions (e.g., pericarditis)
Infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal)
Tissue injury or trauma
Certain types of cancer
Obesity

Can lifestyle factors influence CRP levels? Indeed, certain lifestyle choices can impact CRP production. Smoking, sedentary behavior, and poor diet can all contribute to chronic low-grade inflammation, potentially leading to elevated CRP levels over time.

Acute vs. Chronic Elevations

It’s important to differentiate between acute and chronic elevations in CRP levels. Acute elevations are often associated with sudden onset infections or injuries, while chronic elevations may indicate ongoing inflammatory processes or underlying health conditions that require long-term management.

How Are CRP Levels Measured?

Measuring CRP levels involves a simple blood test that can provide valuable information about a person’s inflammatory status. There are two main types of CRP tests:

Standard CRP Test: This test measures CRP levels in a broader range and is typically used to detect and monitor acute inflammation or infection.
High-Sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) Test: This more precise test can detect lower levels of CRP and is often used to assess cardiovascular risk in otherwise healthy individuals.

Do patients need to prepare for a CRP test? Generally, no special preparation is required for a standard CRP test. However, if an hs-CRP test is ordered, patients may need to fast for 9-12 hours beforehand, especially if other blood tests are being conducted simultaneously.

The Testing Process

The process of obtaining a sample for CRP testing is straightforward and typically takes only a few minutes. A healthcare professional will draw a small amount of blood from a vein, usually in the arm. This sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis, with results often available within a day or two.

Interpreting CRP Test Results: Normal Ranges and Elevated Levels

Interpreting CRP test results requires consideration of various factors, including the patient’s overall health, symptoms, and other diagnostic information. While there is no universally standardized range for CRP levels, general guidelines help categorize results:

Minor Elevation: 0.3-1.0 mg/dL
Moderate Elevation: 1.0-10.0 mg/dL
Severe Elevation: Above 50.0 mg/dL

For hs-CRP tests, results are typically interpreted as follows:

Less than 2.0 mg/L: Lower risk of cardiovascular disease
Greater than 2.0 mg/L: Higher risk of cardiovascular disease

Why is there no standardized range for CRP levels? The lack of a standardized range is due to the wide variety of factors that can influence CRP production and the diverse conditions it can indicate. This variability necessitates individual interpretation based on a patient’s specific circumstances.

Factors Affecting Interpretation

Several factors can complicate the interpretation of CRP test results:

Lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking, obesity, lack of exercise)
Minor injuries or infections that may temporarily elevate CRP
Chronic conditions causing persistent inflammation
Pregnancy, which can naturally increase CRP levels

Healthcare providers must consider these factors when evaluating CRP test results to avoid misinterpretation and ensure accurate diagnosis.

Symptoms Associated with High CRP Levels

The symptoms associated with elevated CRP levels can vary widely depending on the underlying cause of inflammation. Some common symptoms that may accompany high CRP levels include:

Unexplained fatigue
Generalized pain or discomfort
Muscle stiffness and weakness
Low-grade fever
Headaches
Nausea and loss of appetite
Sleep disturbances
Unintended weight loss

In cases of severe elevation, often indicative of acute infection, more pronounced symptoms may occur:

High fever
Rapid heart rate
Profuse sweating or chills
Severe vomiting or diarrhea
Difficulty breathing
Skin rashes or hives
Extreme fatigue or loss of consciousness

Can high CRP levels occur without noticeable symptoms? Yes, particularly in the early stages of certain conditions like heart disease, individuals may have elevated CRP levels without experiencing obvious symptoms. This underscores the importance of regular health check-ups and appropriate screening tests.

The Link Between CRP and Cardiovascular Health

One of the most significant applications of CRP testing is in assessing cardiovascular risk. Research has shown that chronic low-grade inflammation, as indicated by elevated hs-CRP levels, is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.

How does inflammation contribute to heart disease? Inflammation plays a crucial role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis, the build-up of plaque in arterial walls. Elevated CRP levels may indicate ongoing inflammation in the blood vessels, potentially signaling an increased risk of cardiovascular events.

CRP as a Predictor of Cardiovascular Events

Studies have demonstrated that hs-CRP levels can be a valuable predictor of future cardiovascular events, even in individuals with normal cholesterol levels. This has led to the inclusion of hs-CRP testing in comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessments, particularly for individuals with intermediate risk profiles.

Can lowering CRP levels reduce cardiovascular risk? While direct causality hasn’t been definitively established, evidence suggests that interventions that lower CRP levels (such as statin therapy or lifestyle modifications) may contribute to reduced cardiovascular risk. However, it’s important to note that CRP reduction should be viewed as part of a comprehensive approach to heart health rather than a standalone goal.

Management and Treatment of High CRP Levels

The management of elevated CRP levels primarily focuses on addressing the underlying cause of inflammation. Treatment strategies can vary widely depending on the specific condition identified. Some general approaches include:

Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics for infections, or disease-specific treatments for chronic conditions.
Lifestyle modifications: Adopting a healthy diet, increasing physical activity, quitting smoking, and managing stress.
Weight management: For individuals with obesity, weight loss can significantly reduce inflammation and lower CRP levels.
Regular monitoring: Periodic CRP tests to track progress and adjust treatment as needed.

Is it possible to lower CRP levels through natural means? Yes, several natural approaches can help reduce inflammation and potentially lower CRP levels:

Consuming an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids
Engaging in regular physical activity
Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
Ensuring adequate sleep and maintaining a healthy sleep schedule

It’s important to note that while these natural methods can be beneficial, they should not replace medical treatment for serious underlying conditions. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your health regimen.

The Role of Personalized Medicine

As our understanding of inflammation and its role in various diseases continues to evolve, the management of high CRP levels is becoming increasingly personalized. Healthcare providers are now able to tailor treatment plans based on an individual’s specific CRP profile, genetic factors, and overall health status.

This personalized approach allows for more targeted interventions and potentially better outcomes. For example, in cardiovascular risk management, the combination of CRP levels with traditional risk factors can help identify individuals who might benefit most from early preventive measures or more aggressive treatment strategies.

Future Directions in CRP Research and Clinical Applications

The field of CRP research is continually expanding, with ongoing studies exploring new applications and refining our understanding of this important biomarker. Some areas of current interest include:

Developing more sensitive and specific CRP tests
Investigating the role of CRP in neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease
Exploring the potential of CRP as a prognostic marker in various cancers
Studying the genetic factors that influence CRP production and its impact on health

How might advancements in CRP research impact clinical practice? As our knowledge grows, we may see more widespread use of CRP testing in preventive medicine, earlier detection of inflammatory conditions, and more personalized treatment strategies across a range of medical specialties.

The Promise of Precision Medicine

The integration of CRP testing with other biomarkers and genetic information holds great promise for the field of precision medicine. This approach aims to tailor medical treatment to the individual characteristics of each patient, potentially leading to more effective and efficient healthcare delivery.

For example, combining CRP data with genetic risk factors and other biomarkers could allow for more accurate prediction of disease risk and more targeted preventive strategies. This could be particularly valuable in fields like cardiology, rheumatology, and oncology, where early intervention can significantly impact patient outcomes.

As research progresses, we may see the development of new therapeutic targets based on our understanding of CRP and related inflammatory processes. This could lead to novel treatments for a wide range of conditions, from autoimmune disorders to cardiovascular diseases.

Conclusion: The Importance of CRP in Modern Medicine

C-reactive protein has emerged as a crucial tool in modern medicine, offering valuable insights into the body’s inflammatory processes and serving as an important biomarker for various health conditions. From its role in diagnosing acute infections to its utility in assessing cardiovascular risk, CRP testing has become an integral part of clinical practice across multiple medical specialties.

The interpretation of CRP levels requires careful consideration of individual patient factors and should always be done in the context of a comprehensive medical evaluation. While elevated CRP levels can be a cause for concern, they also provide an opportunity for early intervention and proactive health management.

As research in this field continues to advance, we can expect to see even more refined applications of CRP testing, potentially leading to more personalized and effective healthcare strategies. The ongoing exploration of CRP’s role in various diseases and its integration with other biomarkers and genetic information holds great promise for the future of medicine.

Ultimately, understanding and effectively utilizing CRP as a diagnostic and prognostic tool can contribute significantly to improved patient care, earlier disease detection, and more targeted treatment approaches. As we move forward, the continued study and application of CRP in clinical practice will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the landscape of modern medicine and advancing our ability to promote better health outcomes for individuals and populations alike.

High and low levels, and normal range

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. High levels of CRP can indicate inflammation due to an acute or chronic condition.

A wide variety of inflammatory conditions can cause elevated CRP levels, including:

autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), lupus, and certain types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
pericarditis, which is inflammation of the lining of the heart
infection
organ and tissue injury
cancer
obesity

High CRP levels are nearly always a sign of a serious underlying medical condition. Slight and moderate elevations of 0.3–1.0 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl), may happen in pregnant individuals and people with mild infections, diabetes, and some other medical conditions.

The most common cause of high CRP levels is a severe infection. Other possible causes include a poorly controlled autoimmune disease and severe tissue damage.

Read on to learn more about CRP levels, including how doctors check these levels, the normal ranges, and what can cause elevated levels in the body.

There is no need to fast or avoid liquids before having a CRP test. However, people having a high sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) test may have other blood tests at the same time, and these may require fasting for 9–12 hours beforehand.

hs-CRP

While both tests measure the levels of the same molecule in the blood, the hs-CRP test is different than the CRP test.

The hs-CRP test detects small increases of CRP in the bloodstream. It generally measures lower levels of the CRP molecule than the CRP test.

Doctors will use the hs-CRP test to evaluate a healthy person’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease and other heart conditions.

Some conditions and factors that may cause an elevated hs-CRP level include:

irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
atherosclerosis
diabetes
a sedentary lifestyle

Obtaining the sample for both CRP tests involves a blood draw, which usually takes just a few minutes.

The symptoms of elevated CRP levels depend on the underlying condition that is causing them.

However, many people with moderate infections or injuries or conditions that cause chronic inflammation may experience similar symptoms. These include:

unexplained exhaustion
pain
muscle stiffness, soreness, and weakness
low grade fever
chills
a headache
nausea, loss of appetite, and indigestion
difficulty sleeping or insomnia
unexplained weight loss

People with very high CRP levels often have an acute infection.

The symptoms of acute infection include:

high fever
rapid heart rate
uncontrollable sweating, chills, or shaking
uncontrollable or persistent vomiting, retching, or diarrhea
difficulty breathing
rash or hives
parched lips, mouth, and skin
dizziness or lightheadedness
a severe headache, body pain, stiffness, or soreness
loss of consciousness

Some people with high CRP may have few or no symptoms, especially in the early stages of heart disease.

There is currently no set standard for CRP blood levels, and different labs may have slightly different guidelines. This means that a slight elevation in CRP levels could mean nothing.

However, as a general rule, the following classifications apply to CRP:

Minor elevation refers to levels between 0.3 mg/dl and 1.0 mg/dl. This can occur in people who are sedentary, pregnant, or living with a chronic condition, such as diabetes. Mild infections such as the common cold may also trigger these elevations.
Moderate elevation refers to levels between 1.0 mg/dl and 10.0 mg/dl, which can signal a more significant issue. A moderate elevation may be due to acute inflammation from an infection or chronic inflammation from a serious disease, such as RA or heart disease.
Severe elevation refers to levels above 50.0 mg/dl. This elevation warns of an acute bacterial infection.

CRP levels above 10.0 mg/dl — called marked elevation — will typically indicate an underlying inflammatory issue.

The hs-CRP test results indicate a person’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease, with the following ranges:

less than 2 mg/l indicates a lower risk
greater than 2 mg/l indicates a higher risk

CRP levels that are mildly or moderately elevated can be hard to interpret.

A huge range of conditions can raise CRP levels slightly. As there is no standard reference range for CRP, there is usually no way to draw any conclusions by looking at CRP levels alone.

The following factors can also make it challenging to interpret CRP levels:

Lifestyle: People who smoke, have obesity, or do little exercise may have higher-than-normal CRP levels.
Minor injuries or infection: These conditions may temporarily raise CRP levels and conceal other potential conditions, such as diabetes or IBD.
Chronic conditions: Conditions that cause persistent inflammation, including autoimmune diseases, may mask other possible causes of elevated CRP, such as a minor infection.
Estrogen levels: Estrogen-based medications such as birth control pills and hormone replacement medications may raise CRP levels.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy can elevate CRP levels, especially during the later stages.

A doctor will usually order a CRP test alongside several other tests to get a broad overview of a person’s health. This will allow them to consider a range of medical factors.

A doctor will also often wish to repeat the test to see how CRP levels change over time before they make a diagnosis.

However, regardless of any other external factors, CRP levels above 10 mg/l will typically indicate an underlying inflammatory issue.

Chronically elevated CRP levels often signal RA or infectious arthritis, which occurs when a joint becomes infected.

Significantly elevated CRP levels tend to occur with severe infections, such as bacterial or fungal infections. Bacterial infection is responsible for about 90% of the cases involving CRP levels higher than 50 mg/l.

Sometimes, higher levels also occur with certain cancers and other conditions that can cause significant inflammation.

A CRP test requires only a blood draw from a vein. These tests pose very little risk to the person and are generally safe.

A person is likely to experience a pricking sensation when a technician inserts the needle. The site of the needle insertion may continue to throb or sting during the blood draw and possibly for some time afterward.

Some people also have these symptoms after a blood draw:

bruising at the site of the blood draw
dizziness or fainting during or after the test
soreness at the site of the blood draw

People with bleeding disorders may have excessive bleeding after the blood draw. A person should let the healthcare professional know if they have a history of bleeding disorders or excessive bleeding.

A doctor may recommend a CRP test based on a person’s other symptoms or as a follow-up to other blood work.

A person who has signs of acute inflammation may be very sick with symptoms of infection. Chronic inflammation may cause chronic health conditions, such as pain or heart health issues. A person with either group of symptoms might need the test.

A person may undergo the test at the doctor’s office, or they might go to a lab. It does not require any special preparation and is safe for anyone who does not have a serious bleeding disorder.

During the procedure, a technician — usually a phlebotomist — will wrap a rubber band around the person’s arm, just above their elbow. Next, they may tap on the veins or ask a person to make a fist to make the veins more visible. They will then puncture a vein with a small needle and allow blood to flow into a test tube.

Sometimes a person might choose to have the blood drawn from a vein elsewhere in the body. Some people feel dizzy or faint during or after the blood draw. People who faint during blood draws may ask to lie down during or after the procedure.

Very high CRP levels may signal a medical emergency, and a person may need prompt care in the hospital.

However, if a person’s CRP level is only moderately elevated, determining the cause can be difficult, especially if there are few or no symptoms. A doctor may recommend the following:

additional tests for potential causes
follow-up testing in 1–2 months
monitoring for other symptoms

A person should tell the doctor about their health history and any recent symptoms they have experienced, as this information might aid the diagnosis.

Doctors use CRP and hs-CRP tests to detect the levels of CRP in the body. Elevated levels of the protein may indicate an underlying condition or a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. The treatment for elevated levels will differ depending on the cause.

Sometimes, elevated CRP does not require any treatment. This is most common when there is a temporary elevation because of pregnancy, a mild infection, or a physical injury.

People with elevated CRP should follow up with a healthcare professional to discuss the next steps and reduce their risk of serious health issues.

A range of conditions can cause mildly or moderately raised CRP levels, but very high CRP levels are generally easier to interpret.

High and low levels, and normal range

A wide variety of inflammatory conditions can cause elevated CRP levels, including:

autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), lupus, and certain types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
pericarditis, which is inflammation of the lining of the heart
infection
organ and tissue injury
cancer
obesity

The most common cause of high CRP levels is a severe infection. Other possible causes include a poorly controlled autoimmune disease and severe tissue damage.

Read on to learn more about CRP levels, including how doctors check these levels, the normal ranges, and what can cause elevated levels in the body.

hs-CRP

While both tests measure the levels of the same molecule in the blood, the hs-CRP test is different than the CRP test.

The hs-CRP test detects small increases of CRP in the bloodstream. It generally measures lower levels of the CRP molecule than the CRP test.

Doctors will use the hs-CRP test to evaluate a healthy person’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease and other heart conditions.

Some conditions and factors that may cause an elevated hs-CRP level include:

irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
atherosclerosis
diabetes
a sedentary lifestyle

Obtaining the sample for both CRP tests involves a blood draw, which usually takes just a few minutes.

The symptoms of elevated CRP levels depend on the underlying condition that is causing them.

However, many people with moderate infections or injuries or conditions that cause chronic inflammation may experience similar symptoms. These include:

unexplained exhaustion
pain
muscle stiffness, soreness, and weakness
low grade fever
chills
a headache
nausea, loss of appetite, and indigestion
difficulty sleeping or insomnia
unexplained weight loss

People with very high CRP levels often have an acute infection.

The symptoms of acute infection include:

high fever
rapid heart rate
uncontrollable sweating, chills, or shaking
uncontrollable or persistent vomiting, retching, or diarrhea
difficulty breathing
rash or hives
parched lips, mouth, and skin
dizziness or lightheadedness
a severe headache, body pain, stiffness, or soreness
loss of consciousness

Some people with high CRP may have few or no symptoms, especially in the early stages of heart disease.

There is currently no set standard for CRP blood levels, and different labs may have slightly different guidelines. This means that a slight elevation in CRP levels could mean nothing.

However, as a general rule, the following classifications apply to CRP:

Minor elevation refers to levels between 0.3 mg/dl and 1.0 mg/dl. This can occur in people who are sedentary, pregnant, or living with a chronic condition, such as diabetes. Mild infections such as the common cold may also trigger these elevations.
Moderate elevation refers to levels between 1.0 mg/dl and 10.0 mg/dl, which can signal a more significant issue. A moderate elevation may be due to acute inflammation from an infection or chronic inflammation from a serious disease, such as RA or heart disease.
Severe elevation refers to levels above 50.0 mg/dl. This elevation warns of an acute bacterial infection.

CRP levels above 10.0 mg/dl — called marked elevation — will typically indicate an underlying inflammatory issue.

The hs-CRP test results indicate a person’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease, with the following ranges:

less than 2 mg/l indicates a lower risk
greater than 2 mg/l indicates a higher risk

CRP levels that are mildly or moderately elevated can be hard to interpret.

A huge range of conditions can raise CRP levels slightly. As there is no standard reference range for CRP, there is usually no way to draw any conclusions by looking at CRP levels alone.

The following factors can also make it challenging to interpret CRP levels:

Lifestyle: People who smoke, have obesity, or do little exercise may have higher-than-normal CRP levels.
Minor injuries or infection: These conditions may temporarily raise CRP levels and conceal other potential conditions, such as diabetes or IBD.
Chronic conditions: Conditions that cause persistent inflammation, including autoimmune diseases, may mask other possible causes of elevated CRP, such as a minor infection.
Estrogen levels: Estrogen-based medications such as birth control pills and hormone replacement medications may raise CRP levels.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy can elevate CRP levels, especially during the later stages.

A doctor will usually order a CRP test alongside several other tests to get a broad overview of a person’s health. This will allow them to consider a range of medical factors.

A doctor will also often wish to repeat the test to see how CRP levels change over time before they make a diagnosis.

However, regardless of any other external factors, CRP levels above 10 mg/l will typically indicate an underlying inflammatory issue.

Chronically elevated CRP levels often signal RA or infectious arthritis, which occurs when a joint becomes infected.

Sometimes, higher levels also occur with certain cancers and other conditions that can cause significant inflammation.

A CRP test requires only a blood draw from a vein. These tests pose very little risk to the person and are generally safe.

Some people also have these symptoms after a blood draw:

bruising at the site of the blood draw
dizziness or fainting during or after the test
soreness at the site of the blood draw

A doctor may recommend a CRP test based on a person’s other symptoms or as a follow-up to other blood work.

A person may undergo the test at the doctor’s office, or they might go to a lab. It does not require any special preparation and is safe for anyone who does not have a serious bleeding disorder.

Very high CRP levels may signal a medical emergency, and a person may need prompt care in the hospital.

However, if a person’s CRP level is only moderately elevated, determining the cause can be difficult, especially if there are few or no symptoms. A doctor may recommend the following:

additional tests for potential causes
follow-up testing in 1–2 months
monitoring for other symptoms

A person should tell the doctor about their health history and any recent symptoms they have experienced, as this information might aid the diagnosis.

Sometimes, elevated CRP does not require any treatment. This is most common when there is a temporary elevation because of pregnancy, a mild infection, or a physical injury.

People with elevated CRP should follow up with a healthcare professional to discuss the next steps and reduce their risk of serious health issues.

A range of conditions can cause mildly or moderately raised CRP levels, but very high CRP levels are generally easier to interpret.

C-reactive protein (CRP, CRP), indications for the appointment, rules for preparing for the test, interpretation of the results and normal indicators.

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We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is not allowed, the information below is for reference only.

C-reactive protein (CRP, CRP): indications for prescription, rules for preparing for the test, interpretation of the results and normal indicators.

Test indications

C-reactive protein (CRP) is the most highly sensitive indicator of tissue damage during inflammation, necrosis, and trauma. In the blood of a healthy person, CRP is absent or detected in minimal amounts. It is produced mainly by liver cells (hepatocytes), as a reaction to infection pathogens entering the human body, to trauma, as well as in systemic connective tissue diseases (rheumatic diseases).

CRP stimulates immune responses in the body, activates its defense systems and has a high correlation with the activity of the disease and the stage of the process, that is, its concentration becomes higher, the more active the inflammation (infectious or autoimmune) and the more extensive the area of tissue damage during necrosis or trauma . Therefore, C-reactive protein is called the “acute phase” protein.

Another indicator of acute inflammation is the ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate).

ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate, ESR)

ESR is a nonspecific marker of inflammation.

Synonyms: Erythrocyte sedimentation reaction; ROE.

Westergren sedimentation rate; Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate; ESR; Sed Rate; sedimentation rate.

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However, CRP is more informative, since its level begins to rise earlier and decrease faster (with proper treatment, CRP decreases on days 6-10, while ESR only on days 14-28). In addition, the results of ESR are influenced by the gender of the patient (for women, the ESR is higher than for men), the time of day, the number of erythrocytes, and this does not affect the CRP values. Thus, for the assessment of the inflammatory process, the analysis for C-reactive protein seems to be more justified.

The level of CRP in viral diseases increases slightly, so its significant increase in combination with elevated body temperature most likely indicates the presence of a bacterial infection.

For a short time, C-reactive protein may increase after surgery due to tissue damage, but in the absence of bacterial inflammation in the postoperative period, it quickly decreases.

Whereas the addition of a bacterial infection, whether it is a local process or sepsis, is accompanied by an increase in CRP or the absence of its decrease.

There is a highly sensitive method for determining CRP – highly sensitive C-reactive protein (cardio). The study reveals an increase in CRP with a sluggish, low degree of inflammation of the inner surface of the vascular wall, which is fraught with the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. The analysis is prescribed only in the absence of acute diseases and injuries (in which an increase in CRP is detected by the standard method). An increase in the values of highly sensitive C-reactive protein may indicate the risk of cardiovascular diseases: myocardial infarction, stroke.

Thus, an analysis for C-reactive protein in combination with the study of some indicators of a clinical blood test (leukocyte count, leukocyte count and ESR) is usually prescribed in case of an increase in body temperature in order to suggest viral or bacterial inflammation by the degree of their increase.

CRP is determined for pain in the joints, not associated with trauma, for the differential diagnosis of degenerative and inflammatory diseases – arthrosis and arthritis. In rheumatic diseases, CRP is examined to assess the activity of the process and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

Preparing for the procedure

Donate blood preferably in the morning on an empty stomach, after an 8-14 hour break from eating. Do not drink juices, tea and coffee. Drinking water is allowed.

If necessary, CRP can be tested 4-6 hours after a light meal.

Physical activity should be avoided 2-3 days before the study.

Do not smoke for at least 30 minutes before blood sampling.

C-reactive protein (CRP, CRP)

C-reactive protein is an acute phase protein, a sensitive indicator of tissue damage during inflammation, necrosis, trauma.
Synonyms: Blood test for CRP; C-jet …

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Deadline

The analysis is carried out within one business day.

What can affect the results

A number of factors can influence the results of a study:

Intense physical activity, which should be avoided 2-3 days before the test, as it can lead to muscle tissue damage and, consequently, an increase in CRP. This is especially true for athletes and people who regularly visit gyms: any muscle injury leads to an increase in CRP levels.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) painkillers and antipyretics may reduce actual CRP levels by reducing inflammation. There is evidence that statins used to lower blood cholesterol levels have a similar effect.
The presence of implants and grafts in the body.
Consumption of alcohol and/or fatty foods on the eve of the study.

C-reactive protein (CRP)

For research, blood is taken from a vein.

You can take a blood test for C-reactive protein (CRP, CRP) at the nearest INVITRO medical office. The list of offices where biomaterial for laboratory testing is accepted is presented in the “Addresses” section.

The interpretation of the results of the study contains information for the attending physician and is not a diagnosis. The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. An accurate diagnosis is made by the doctor, using both the results of this examination and the necessary information from other sources: history, results of other examinations, etc.

Normal

Units of measurement: mg/l

A CRP level of less than 5 mg/l is considered normal.

When assessing cardiovascular risk, the level of highly sensitive CRP less than 1.0 mg/l is regarded as low, 1-3 mg/l as average, more than 3 mg/l indicates an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases in the future.

Explanation of indicators

The level of C-reactive protein in the blood does not depend on the gender and age of the patient, and its increase may be associated with damage to any organs and systems of the body of various nature. A specific diagnosis is established by a comprehensive assessment of complaints, examination data, instrumental and laboratory examination methods.

What do low readings mean

Since C-reactive protein is either absent in the blood of a healthy person, or is detected in minimal amounts, it is incorrect to talk about its decrease.

What do high rates mean

The degree of increase in C-reactive protein usually correlates with the volume, nature and severity of tissue damage.

An increase in CRP up to 30 mg/l can indicate viral diseases – SARS, rotavirus infection, etc., is found in malignant tumors, rheumatic diseases without an exacerbation stage (systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, systemic scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.).

An increase in CRP to 100 mg/l and above, as a rule, accompanies various acute bacterial infections (tonsillitis, pneumonia, appendicitis, acute cholecystitis, pyelonephritis, etc.), exacerbations of chronic infectious diseases and rheumatic diseases, as well as various tissue damage ( surgery, myocardial infarction, etc. ).

The most significant increase in CRP – up to 300 mg / l or more is possible with extensive burns and sepsis, when bacteria from the lesion enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body.

Additional examination in case of deviation from the norm

An increase in body temperature in combination with an increase in the level of C-reactive protein can be accompanied by generalized (common) and any local lesions – infections of the skin and subcutaneous adipose tissue, respiratory and dental infections, infections of the eyes, ENT organs, gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular system, urological infections, infections of the central nervous system, bones and joints.

Depending on the clinical picture, such patients are examined and treated by doctors of different specialties – general practitioners, surgeons, narrow specialists, including ENT specialists, dentists, gynecologists, urologists, rheumatologists.

As additional research in each case, you may need a wide range of instrumental and laboratory diagnostics.

An increase in the level of highly sensitive CRP entails the identification of other risk factors for cardiovascular disease. For this, a blood test is performed for the lipid spectrum, fibrinogen, homocysteine, glucose, uric acid, as well as an ultrasound examination of the vessels of the neck and heart.

Sources

Ershov A.V. C-reactive protein in the diagnosis of community-acquired pneumonia. Consilium Medicum, magazine. 2019, 21(3): 15-19 p.
Khorolets E.V., et al. Diagnostic significance of C-reactive protein in the genesis of pathologies of the cardiovascular system. Journal of Fundamental Medicine and Biology. No. 1. 2013. S. 23-27.

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.
For a correct assessment of the results of your analyzes in dynamics, it is preferable to do studies in the same laboratory, since different laboratories can use different research methods and units of measurement to perform the same analyzes.

Recommendations

PSA (prostate specific antigen) test
11996
may 13
Human papillomavirus
207
04 May
Alkaline phosphatase
16916
16 April

Highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP)

Human C-reactive protein (CRP) is one of the so-called acute phase proteins. Its concentration in the blood increases rapidly in response to inflammation. CRP is a 224 protein residue with a monomer molecular weight of approximately 25 kDa and a pI of 6.4 (1-4). It belongs to the pentraxins, an evolutionarily conserved family of proteins characterized by calcium-dependent ligand binding and radial symmetry of five monomers forming a ring around a central pore (5).
The exact function of CRP in vivo is not yet fully understood. CRP has been shown to be involved in inflammatory processes as well as innate immunity processes. The important biological activity of CRP is determined by its ability to bind to various ligands, such as: damaged cell membranes, apoptotic cells and fibronectin, with the highest affinity for phosphocholine residues. When CRP is bound to a ligand, this can be recognized by the C1q complement component, leading to activation of the classical complement pathway. On the other hand, through interaction with complement factor H, CRP regulates the alternative complement pathway (6).

CRP in diagnostics

In clinical practice, C-reactive protein is used as the main, albeit rather non-specific, marker of inflammation. As a rule, in healthy people, the level of CRP is usually less than 5 mg / l. In pathology, the CRP concentration has a huge 10,000-fold dynamic range (approximately 0.05–500 mg/L) (7). The highest levels of CRP (above 30 mg/l) are observed in bacterial infections such as septic arthritis, meningitis and pneumonia.
In 2003, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Heart Association (AHA) issued a statement identifying CRP as the most appropriate inflammatory marker for current clinical use in assessing cardiovascular risk (8). Many epidemiological studies have shown that CRP is a strong independent predictor of future cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, peripheral vascular disease, and sudden cardiac death without any evidence of cardiovascular disease (reviewed by Clearfield (9)). CDC/AHA guidelines support the use of CRP in primary prevention and set thresholds according to relative risk categories: low risk (<1.0 mg/l), moderate risk (1.0–3.0 mg/l), and high risk (> 3.0 mg/l). This is why today’s high-sensitivity CRP assays (hsCRP) aim to recognize CRP levels in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).

Clinical use

– Cardiovascular risk prediction

– Inflammation

hsCRP test development reagents

Hytest monoclonal antibodies have been used in new immunometric assay systems that achieve excellent sensitivity with a linear detection range of 0. 025 mg/l to 2.5 mg/l in magnetic biosensor assay (10), and from 0.01 mg/L to 50 mg/L in an immunochemiluminometric assay (11). In both cases, the limit of detection was 0.004 mg/l. A limit of detection of 0.0011 mg/l was achieved in a solid-phase sandwich fluorescence immunoassay using nanocrystals (12). Our top pairs C2cc-C6cc and C5-CRP135 and several others provide 10,000-fold linearity in experimental immunofluorimetric assays. Our antibodies can be used to develop highly sensitive CRP detection assays for various diagnostic platforms. In addition to monoclonal antibodies, we also provide purified native C-reactive protein.

Table 1. Pathologies leading to increased levels of CRP

Infections	Bacterial Systemic/severe fungal
Allergic complications after infection	Rheumatic fever Erythema nodosum
Inflammatory diseases	Rheumatoid arthritis Juvenile idiopathic arthritis Ankylosing spondylitis Psoriatic arthritis Systemic vasculitis Polymyalgia rheumatica Reiter’s disease Crohn’s disease Familial Mediterranean fever
Necrosis	Myocardial infarction Tumor embolization Acute pancreatitis
Injuries	Surgery Burns Fractures
Malignant tumors	Lymphoma Carcinoma Sarcoma

Monoclonal antibodies specific to CRP

Applications

In the native CRP molecule, each protomer has two-coordinated Ca2+ ions (13). Hytest offers monoclonal antibodies to CRP that are sensitive or insensitive to the presence of Ca2+ in solution. Some of our antibodies recognize the antigen only in the presence of Ca2+ (clones C3, C4). Most Hytest monoclones are not dependent on the presence of Ca2+ in the sandwich immunoassay and are able to effectively recognize the antigen even in the presence of EDTA in the test sample (clones C1, C2, C2cc, C5, C6, C6cc, C7, CRP11, CRP30, CRP30cc, CRP36, CRP103, CRP135, CRP169). All Hytest CRP antibodies have been tested in various immunological applications.

Direct ELISA

All monoclonal antibodies to CRP of our company were tested in direct ELISA and revealed native CRP with high sensitivity. Most antibodies recognize the native protein both in the presence and absence of Ca2+, while clone C3 binds to CRP only in the presence of Ca2+ ions (Fig. 1 and Fig. 2).

Figure 1. Interaction of CRP11 clone with native human CRP in direct ELISA . 100 ng of native CRP (Hytest) were applied to the wells in Tris buffered saline containing 2 mM CaCl2 or 5 mM EDTA.

Figure 2. Interaction of clone C3 with native human CRP in direct ELISA. 100 ng/well of native CRP (Hytest) was applied to the wells in Tris buffered saline containing 2 mM CaCl2 or 5 mM EDTA.

Western blot CRP immunodetection

Clones C1, CRP11, CRP36 and CRP169recognize human CRP in Western blotting after antigen transfer to a nitrocellulose membrane. The results of experiments illustrating the immunodetection of CRP in Western blot using CRP36 and CRP169 antibodies are shown in Fig. 3.

Figure 3. CRP immunodetection using anti-CRP monoclonal antibodies in Western blot after SDS gel electrophoresis. Native CRP was applied to the gel under non-reducing (A) or reducing (B) conditions. After electrophoresis, the protein was transferred from the gel to a nitrocellulose membrane and probed using monoclones CRP36 and CRP169. A: CRP under non-reducing conditions after SDS gel electrophoresis according to Taylor and Van der Berg (14). B: CRP under reducing conditions after SDS gel electrophoresis. For visualization, MoAbs were conjugated with HRP (streptavidin-horseradish peroxidase conjugate) and 3,3-diaminobenzidinetetrahydrochloride (DAB) as the HRP substrate.

Highly sensitive CRP immunoassays

All clones were tested in sandwich fluoroimmunoassay as capture and detection antibodies with human serum in the presence or absence of Ca2+ ions. Best pairs recommended for use (capture – detection):

S2ss – S6ss
C5 – C6ss
C7 – C6ss
C5 – CRP135cc
CRP30cc – CRP135cc
C3 – C6cc (Ca2+ sensitive)
C2cc – C4cc (Ca2+ sensitive)

Calibration curves for pairs C2cc-C6cc and C5-CRP135cc are shown in fig. 4 and fig. 5 respectively.

HiTest monoclonal antibodies recognize the CRP antigen with excellent sensitivity and good kinetics, with a linearity range greater than four orders of magnitude.

Figure 4. Immunodetection of CRP (standard) in a sandwich immunoassay
for a pair of C2-C6.

Clone C2 – biotinylated.

Clone C6 labeled with a stable Eu3+ chelate.

Antibody mixture and antigen samples (100 µl) were incubated for 10 min at room temperature with streptavidin coated on the plates

Clone C5 – biotinylated.

CRP135 clone labeled with a stable Eu3+ chelate.

The antibody mixture and antigen samples (100 µl) were incubated for 30 min at room temperature in streptavidin-coated plates.

Some recommended pairs of monoclonal antibodies of our company are sensitive to the presence of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) in solution, the rest are insensitive to it (Fig. 6). A pair of C5 – CRP135cc and some others can be used with or without Ca2+ ions. The pair of C3-C6cc monoclones is strongly influenced by calcium.

Figure 6. Effect of EDTA on CRP measurements. Two different antibody pairs were used in a sandwich immunoassay. The C3-C6 pair (left) shows dependence on Ca2+ ions, as this pair does not recognize CRP in the presence of EDTA. The C5-CRP135 pair (right), in contrast, is independent of EDTA in solution. Normal human serum supplemented with 2 mM CaCl2 or 5 mM EDTA was used as a source of CRP.

Antibody affinity information

For some applications – turbidimetry, nephelometry or competitive immunoassay – it is necessary to evaluate the affinity constants of the antibodies used. HyTest offers a range of MoAbs with varying affinities for CRP (Table 2). We have evaluated the affinity constants for some of them using Biacore® technology. It is based on the effect of surface plasmon resonance, which makes it possible to evaluate the interaction between two proteins in real time. The affinity constant is obtained by visualizing the association and dissociation rate constants. The kinetics of the monoclonal antibodies chosen by us differ, which makes them suitable for the development of a CRP immunoassay with a wide dynamic range. The selected kinetic values of our anti-CRP antibodies are shown in Figure 7.

Table 2. Affinity constants of some monoclonal antibodies to CRP.

Clone	Kon (1/Ms)	Koff (1/s)	Kd (M)
C2cc	2.3 x 105	4.4 x 10-4	1.93×10-9
C5	1.3 x 105	2.2 x 10-3	1.7×10-8
CRP30cc	9.3 x 103	4.0 x 10-3	4.3×10-7
CRP135cc	1.5 x 105	6.6×10-4	4.4×10-9

Figure 7. Kinetic values of our company’s MoAbs to CRP. The left column shows the Kon value, the right column shows the Koff value.

Recombinant human CRP

CRP production in the liver starts immediately
after a single stimulation, and the concentration
in serum rises above 5 mg/ml approximately
after 6 hours, reaching peak values of approximately
after 48 hours. Plasma half-life of CRP
is about 19 hours, regardless of
health status and the presence of any diseases
(12).

Thus, the concentration of circulating CRP
depends solely on the rate of production / synthesis
CRP, which can be used to judge the intensity
pathological processes that initiated this
production of CRP (17).

Our company’s recombinant human CRP
expressed in mammalian cells and
purified under native conditions, excluding
renaturation steps. Recombinant human CRP
purified by affinity chromatography with
phosphatidylcholine matrix, which indicates
about the functional activity of the recombinant
squirrel.

Figure 8. SDS-PAGE of recombinant human CRP under reducing conditions.

molecular weight markers
recombinant human CRP, 2 mcg
recombinant human CRP, 5 mcg

Our recombinant human CRP (Cat. No. 8CR8) is not
contains labels. It is in optimal shape.
for liquid storage. Protein Purity
is more than 95% (see Fig. 8). results
use of recombinant human CRP in
analyzes with various pairs of MoAbs of our company
shown in Figure 9.

Figure 9. Calibration curve for recombinant human CRP.

A) Calibration curve of a pair of CRP30cc-CRP135cc and B) C2cc-C4cc (capture-detect). The substrate antibodies were adsorbed onto microplates for immunoassay. A mixture of antigens and detection antibodies labeled with a stable Eu3+ chelate was incubated for 30 minutes at room temperature.

Literature references

Yasojima Koji et al. ” Generation of C-Reactive Protein
and Complement Components in Atherosclerotic
Plaques. ” Am J Pathol. March 2001; 158(3): 1039–1051.
Kobayashi S, Inoue N, et al. “Interaction of oxidative
stress and inflammatory response in coronary plaque
instability: important role of C-reactive protein.”
Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2003, 23:1398–1404.
Ciubotaru I., Potempa L.A., Wander R.C. “Production
of Modified C-Reactive Proteinin U937-Derived
Macrophages”. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2005,
230(10):762-70.
Diehl E. E. et al. ”Immunohistochemical Localization of
modified C-reactive protein antigen in normal vascular
tissue.” American Journal of the Medical Sciences 2000;
319(2):79.
Hirschfield G.M., Pepys M.B. “C-reactive protein and
cardiovascular disease: new insights from an old
molecule.” Q J Med 2003; 96:793-807.
Thompson D., Pepys M.B., Wood S.P. “The physiological
structure of human Creactive protein and its complex
with phosphocholine.” Structure 1999; 7:169-177.
Biro A. et al. ”Studies on the interactions between
C-reactive protein and complement proteins”
Immunology 2007 May;121(1):40-50.
Lowe G.D.O., Pepys M.B. ”C-Reactive Protein and
Cardiovascular Disease: Weighing the Evidence”
Current Atherosclerosis Reports 2006, 8:421–428.
Ridker P.M. “C-reactive protein: a simple test to help
predict risk of heart attack and stroke” Circulation.
2003; 108:e81-e85.
Clearfield M.B. “C-reactive protein: a new risk
assessment tool for cardiovascular disease” JAOA
2005; 105(9):409-416.
Pearson T.A et al. “Markers of inflammation and
cardiovascular disease: application and public health
practice: A statement for healthcare professionals from
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and
the American Heart Association. Circulation 2003 Jan
28;107(3):499-511.
Pepys M.B & Hirschfield G.M. “C-reactive protein: a
critical update.” J Clin Invest Jun 2003;111(12):1805-1812.
Meyer M.H. et al. “CRP determination based on a novel
magnetic biosensor.”Biosens Bioelectron 2007 Jan 15;
22(6):973-9.
Shiesh S. C. et al. “Determination of C-reactive protein
with an ultra-sensitivity immunochemiluminometric
assay”. J Immunol Methods 2006 Apr 20;311(1-2):87-95.
Sin K.K. et al. “Fluorogenic nanocrystals for highly
sensitive detection of C-reactive protein.” IEE Proc
Nanobiotechnol 2006 Jun;153(3):54-8.
Karolina E. Taylor and Carmen W. van den Berg
“Structural and functional comparison of native
pentameric, denatured monomeric and biotinylated
C-reactive protein.” Immunology 2006; 120, 404–411.
Gershov D. et al. “C-reactive protein binds to
apoptic cells, protects the cells from assembly of the
terminal complement components, and sustains an
antiinflammatory innate immune response: implications
for systemic autoimmunity.” J Exp Med 2000;192:1353-
1363.

PubMed search for references on C-reactive protein.
View all links about CRP.

Ordering information.

Monoclonal antibodies

Product name	Cat. No.	Clone	Isotype	Notes
C-reactive protein	4C28	C1	IgG2b	ELISA, WB, highly sensitive
		C3	IgG1	ELISA, IHC, Ca2+ dependent, highly sensitive
		C5	IgG1	ELISA, highly sensitive
		C7	IgG1	ELISA, IHC, highly sensitive
		CRP11	IgG1	ELISA, WB
		CRP36	IgG2a	ELISA, WB, IHC
		CRP169	IgG2a	ELISA, WB
	4C28cc	C2cc	IgG1	In vitro, ELISA, highly sensitive
		C4cc	IgG1	In vitro, ELISA, Ca2+ dependent, highly sensitive

		C6cc	IgG2a	In vitro, ELISA, highly sensitive
		CRP30cc	IgG1	In vitro, ELISA, low affinity
		CRP135cc	IgG2b	In vitro, ELISA, highly sensitive

Antigen

New!

Product name

Cat.

Crp rate high. Understanding High CRP Levels: Causes, Symptoms, and Implications

What is C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and Its Significance?

The Role of CRP in the Body

Common Causes of Elevated CRP Levels

Acute vs. Chronic Elevations

How Are CRP Levels Measured?

The Testing Process

Interpreting CRP Test Results: Normal Ranges and Elevated Levels

Factors Affecting Interpretation

Symptoms Associated with High CRP Levels

The Link Between CRP and Cardiovascular Health

CRP as a Predictor of Cardiovascular Events

Management and Treatment of High CRP Levels

The Role of Personalized Medicine

Future Directions in CRP Research and Clinical Applications

The Promise of Precision Medicine

Conclusion: The Importance of CRP in Modern Medicine

High and low levels, and normal range

hs-CRP

High and low levels, and normal range

hs-CRP

C-reactive protein (CRP, CRP), indications for the appointment, rules for preparing for the test, interpretation of the results and normal indicators.

Test indications

Preparing for the procedure

Deadline

What can affect the results

C-reactive protein (CRP)

Normal

Explanation of indicators

What do low readings mean

What do high rates mean

Additional examination in case of deviation from the norm

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Highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP)

CRP in diagnostics

hsCRP test development reagents

Monoclonal antibodies specific to CRP

Applications

Direct ELISA

Western blot CRP immunodetection

Highly sensitive CRP immunoassays

Antibody affinity information

Recombinant human CRP

Literature references

Ordering information.

Monoclonal antibodies

Antigen

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