What is the C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test?

A CRP test stands for c-reactive protein test that determines the amount of c-reactive protein (CRP) in a blood sample. CRP is a protein that is produced by the liver. Usually, your blood contains low quantities of c-reactive protein. If any body part is inflamed, your liver releases more CRP into the bloodstream. High CRP levels may indicate a significant health issue that causes inflammation.

Inflammation is your body's way of defending and healing the tissues after an accident or other disease. Inflammation can include both acute (rapid) and temporary inflammation. Inflammation can occur after an external injury like a cut, or it may be internal.

Inflammation that lasts for too long might harm healthy tissues. This is referred to as -

Chronic inflammation can also occur if the tissues are regularly harmed or inflamed, such as by smoking or environmental toxins.

What is the Use of the CRP Test?

A CRP test may be used to aid in the detection or monitoring of inflammation in acute or chronic illnesses such as:

Your doctor may use a CRP test to determine if chronic inflammation medications are effective. It is also done to determine treatment options if you have Sepsis. Sepsis is your body's overreaction to an infection that has spread to your bloodstream.

Why Do I Require a CRP Test?

This test may be required if you have signs of a bacterial infection, such as:

A CRP test may also be required if your doctor suspects you have a persistent illness that causes inflammation. The symptoms will vary according to the disease.

If you have an infection or a chronic illness that causes inflammation, you may require this test to monitor your health and treatment. CRP levels fluctuate according to the extent of inflammation in your body. If your CRP levels reduce, it indicates that your anti-inflammatory medicine is working or you're recovering independently.

What happens during a CRP Test?

A healthcare expert will use a tiny needle to draw blood from a vein in your arm. Following the needle's insertion, a small quantity of blood will be collected in a test tube or vial. One may feel a slight sting when the needle is inserted or goes in or out. This procedure usually takes around five minutes.

How Do You Prepare for the CRP Test?

Some medications may have an impact on your results. As a result, inform your provider about any vitamins or medications you use, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Do not discontinue any prescription medications without first consulting your doctor.

Is there any Risk associated with the CRP Test?

CRP Testing does not have any risks associated with it. A blood test might cause little discomfort or bruising where the needle was inserted, but it will go soon.

Understanding the Meaning of CRP Test Results

Your CRP test results indicate the level of inflammation in the body. However, your test findings will not tell you what is causing the inflammation. Your physician will consider your CRP values and the results of other tests, your symptoms, and your medical history to determine a diagnosis.

Healthy people have very low levels of CRP in their blood. Any rises over normal indicate that their bodies are inflamed. However, laboratories test CRP levels in different ways and interpret "normal" CRP ranges differently. That is why it is very important to consult your doctor and understand what your reports show.

Important information to know about CRP Testing

A CRP test is frequently mistaken for a high-sensitivity CRP test (hs). They both assess CRP but for very different causes. A hs-CRP test detects minute changes in your CRP levels. It is used to calculate your risk of developing heart disease.