C-reactive protein (CRP) is a protein produced in the liver. The level of CRP in the blood rises when there is inflammation in the body. A CRP blood test is therefore often used by doctors to check for signs of inflammation, which can be caused by a variety of conditions, from infections to chronic diseases.
When the body experiences inflammation, it responds by producing several proteins, including CRP. By measuring the amount of CRP in the blood, doctors can get an indication of how severe an inflammation is and how it develops over time.
While an increase in CRP levels can indicate inflammation, it is not specific to a particular disease or condition. Doctors often use this test in combination with other tests and examinations to diagnose a specific condition or disease.
No special preparation is required before a CRP test. A nurse or phlebotomist will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. It only takes a few minutes and you can return to your daily activities immediately afterwards.
The results of a CRP test are reported as milligrams of CRP per liter of blood (mg/L). High levels can indicate inflammation, but it's important to remember that many things can cause elevated CRP levels. Your doctor will assess your results in the context of other tests and your health history.
While the CRP test is a useful indicator of inflammation, it is not without limitations. Elevated levels can also be seen with certain medical treatments or from other conditions unrelated to inflammation. Therefore, it's important to discuss the results with your doctor.
As with any blood test, there is a small risk of bleeding, bruising or infection at the site where the needle was inserted. However, CRP blood testing is generally considered a safe procedure with minimal side effects.
After reading the above information, we hope you feel more informed about CRP blood testing. If you would like to book an appointment for a CRP test or discuss your results, you can easily do so via our online booking system here:
The CRP blood test is primarily used to measure the level of C-reactive protein in the blood, which can indicate the presence of inflammation in the body.
No, a high CRP value can be a sign of many different conditions, including minor infections. It's important to combine the results with other tests and symptoms to make an accurate diagnosis.
