The CRP – C-reactive protein blood test is performed to measure the levels of C-reactive protein in the blood. Inflammatory conditions and bacterial infections can cause the levels of CRP to rise. Wondering what a CRP test means? The CRP test helps detect inflammation, which may be a result of acute health conditions. Chronic inflammation may arise due to autoimmune disorders, persistent infections, or lifestyle factors such as smoking. The test also helps monitor the severity of numerous chronic conditions and helps healthcare providers to evaluate the effectiveness of a treatment plan. However, the C protein blood test does not pinpoint the exact cause or location of the inflammation. Simply put, a CRP test means evaluating how the body is responding to inflammation.
Overview of the C-reactive protein Test
The CRP blood test helps determine the levels of the C-reactive protein in the body. There are several chronic conditions and autoimmune disorders that can cause inflammation, which is the body’s way of protecting the tissues when you have been injured or have an infection. Produced in the liver, the CRP is sent into the bloodstream in response to inflammatory conditions. While the normal range of the CRP – C-reactive protein test is low, high levels of the protein are generally caused by inflammation and may also be a sign of severe disorders or infections.
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