CRP test

Hi
Has anyone been through a hsCRP test for suspected inflammation? How useful is it?
Thnx,
Malan

[Brooke_38]

The use  of  a C-Reactrive Protein test can assess a persons risk for heart problems. By measuring CRP, physicians can measure the level of inflammation in the body and help identify people who may be at risk for a heart attack or other cardiovascular event.

CRP, however, has drawbacks as an indicator for heart disease. Because CRP levels rise in response to inflammation anywhere in the body, it is a non-specific marker, meaning that elevated CRP levels do not necessarily indicate atherosclerosis or increased risk for cardiovascular events. The truth is,  CRP levels rise in response to many illnesses and chronic diseases, including bronchitis, gastritis, diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer. It can also rise in response to physical trauma associated with, burns, fractures, surgery.

There are certain factors that may interfere with the results as well. If you are on any Statin medications for high cholesterol, antiinflammatory meds, as well as birth contol pills.

A  CRP test is generally used as a diagnostic tool, especially in cases of suspected heart disease. However, because it cannot identify the specific location of the inflammation, they are usually used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests.

Most patients will not require regular testing and the American Heart Association does not recommend regular CRP tests for people who are at a low risk for cardiovascular disease. However, CRP levels can also be used to monitor the progress of treatments aimed at reducing chronic inflammation. As inflammation in the body decreases, so do CRP levels. Therefore, some patients will have a series of CRP tests performed over the course of their treatment.