C-reactive Protein (CRP)

C-reactive Protein (CRP)

Definition: C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance produced by the liver in response to inflammation. It is a part of the acute phase response and serves as a marker for inflammation in the body.

Functions of CRP

• Inflammation Marker:

• CRP levels rise in response to acute and chronic inflammatory conditions, making it a useful biomarker for detecting inflammation.

• Immune Response:

• It plays a role in the immune system by binding to phosphocholine expressed on the surface of dead or dying cells and some bacteria, promoting their clearance by immune cells.

• Clinical Significance:

• Elevated CRP levels can indicate infections, autoimmune diseases, and chronic inflammatory conditions.

Measurement of CRP

• High-Sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP):
• This test measures lower levels of CRP and is often used to assess cardiovascular disease risk. Elevated hs-CRP levels can indicate systemic inflammation that may contribute to heart disease.

Clinical Relevance

• Diagnosis of Inflammatory Conditions:

• CRP is used to diagnose and monitor conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and infections.

• Cardiovascular Risk Assessment:

• High hs-CRP levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and ischemic strokes.

• Monitoring Treatment Response:

• Changes in CRP levels can help evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for inflammatory diseases or infections.

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a sensitive biomarker used to assess low-grade inflammation in the body, particularly in relation to cardiovascular health. Unlike standard CRP tests, hs-CRP can detect smaller changes in CRP levels, making it useful for evaluating an individual’s risk of developing heart disease. Elevated hs-CRP levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes, as they indicate systemic inflammation that may contribute to atherosclerosis. This marker is often used in conjunction with other risk factors to provide a comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular health and guide preventive strategies.

Conclusion

C-reactive protein is an important biomarker for inflammation that aids in diagnosing and monitoring various health conditions. Understanding its role and clinical significance is essential for effective patient care and management of inflammatory diseases.

References

1. Pepys MB, Hirschfield GM. “C-reactive protein: a critical update.” Journal of Clinical Investigation. 2003; 111(12): 1805-1812. DOI: 10.1172/JCI200318388
2. Ridker PM, et al. “C-Reactive Protein and Other Markers of Inflammation in the Prediction of Cardiovascular Disease in Women.” New England Journal of Medicine. 2000; 342(12): 836-843. DOI: 10.1056/NEJM200003233421201
3. Kaptoge S, et al. “C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, and cardiovascular disease prediction.” New England Journal of Medicine. 2010; 362(1): 8-20. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa0902905