C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test
What is C-reactive Protein (CRP) Test?
C-reactive Protein (CRP) Test is a laboratory test used to quantify the amount of CRP, a protien, in the body. CRP is produced in the liver and its levels increase in response to inflammation in the body. The CRP test is used to measure the level of the inflammation in conditions such as kidney disease, rheumatological illnesses, heart disease, and many other conditions.
Preparation for CRP Test
No special preparation is required for the CRP test. There is usually no dietary or other restrictions prior to the test so you can eat and drink normally. You should tell your health care provider if you recently had an infection or any other illness as this can affect the results.
Procedure of CRP Test
The CRP Test is performed by drawing a small sample of blood from a vein. The sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis and the results are available in a few days.
Types of CRP Tests
- High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Test (hs-CRP): This test measures the presence of CRP in a person’s blood to determine if they may be at risk for heart attack or stroke.
- Cardiac C-Reactive Protein Test (cCRP): This test is used to assess the risk of having or developing cardiovascular disease and to monitor patients with known cardiovascular disease.
Risks of CRP Test
CRP tests are generally considered safe with very minimal risks involved. The risk of complications is minimal due to the small amount of blood required for the test. The most common risk associated with the test is minor bleeding or bruising at the puncture site.
Why is CRP Test Done?
The CRP test is used by doctors to measure levels of inflammation in the body. It is also used to measure the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack and stroke. The CRP test can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for conditions such as arthritis, kidney disease, lupus, and other inflammatory diseases.
When is CRP Test Recommended?
The CRP test is recommended if a doctor suspects that a person may have an underlying inflammatory condition or if there is a suspicion of cardiovascular disease. The CRP test can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for chronic inflammatory diseases.