C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Blood Test, Quantitative

What is the purpose of this test?

The C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Blood Test, Quantitative measures the level of CRP, a protein made by the liver in response to inflammation. High CRP levels can indicate infections, autoimmune disorders, chronic diseases, or injuries, but this test does not detect small CRP increases linked to heart disease risk. Instead, it helps assess acute and chronic inflammatory conditions to support diagnosis and treatment.

Doctors use the CRP blood test to diagnose and monitor conditions such as bacterial infections, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and post-surgical recovery. By tracking CRP levels, healthcare providers can evaluate treatment effectiveness, detect worsening inflammation, and make informed medical decisions. This test is especially useful for identifying autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammatory disorders that may not be immediately clear through symptoms alone.

Who should get this test?

The C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Blood Test, Quantitative may be beneficial for individuals who:

• Have symptoms of an infection, such as fever, chills, or fatigue.
• Experience joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, which may suggest an autoimmune disease like rheumatoid arthritis.
• Have been diagnosed with an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
• Need to monitor inflammation after surgery or an injury.
• Are managing chronic inflammatory conditions and need to track treatment progress.
• Have unexplained inflammation or persistent pain with no clear cause.

When should I order the C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Blood Test, Quantitative?

Individuals may consider ordering this test if they have symptoms or concerns related to inflammation. Symptoms to consider:

• Persistent fever, chills, or body aches.
• Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling without a clear cause.
• Digestive issues like abdominal pain, bloating, or diarrhea.
• Fatigue, weakness, or general discomfort that doesn’t improve.
• Unexplained redness, swelling, or warmth in any part of the body.
• Slow wound healing or signs of post-surgical inflammation.

If you experience these symptoms or have a condition known to cause inflammation, the C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Blood Test, Quantitative can help assess your health and guide your doctor in diagnosing or managing your condition effectively.