CRP, or C-reactive protein, plays a crucial role in evaluating acute infections and autoimmune diseases. It is a commonly used diagnostic method in the medical field, applied in various cases to determine the extent of metabolic disturbances in the serum with diverse objectives. So, what is CRP testing, and how is it conducted? Let’s explore these aspects in the following article!
What is CRP Testing?
What is CRP testing? CRP testing involves the measurement of C-reactive protein (CRP), a glycoprotein primarily produced by the liver. Normally, its concentration in the blood is very low or even undetectable. However, in acute inflammatory conditions or tissue destruction within the body, the production of C-reactive protein is stimulated, leading to a rapid increase in serum levels. Quantitative CRP testing helps measure the amount of C-reactive protein in the blood.
CRP levels typically rise around 6 hours after the onset of inflammation, allowing physicians to assess inflammatory conditions earlier than using erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR or sed rate) tests, which usually increase about a week into inflammation. One advantage of CRP is that its value is not influenced by changes in blood globulin and hematocrit concentrations, making it a valuable diagnostic indicator even when these factors fluctuate.
What is CRP Testing? – It is a crucial examination for identifying and assessing inflammatory or infectious conditions
Why is CRP Testing Important?
CRP testing is crucial for identifying and assessing inflammatory or infectious conditions. Its applications include:
1. Postoperative Infection Assessment
CRP levels typically rise 2-6 hours post-surgery and decrease by the third day after the procedure. Prolonged elevation beyond 3 days may indicate a new infection.
2. Detection of Infections and Inflammatory Diseases
CRP testing helps identify the presence of infections and inflammatory diseases such as lymphoma, immune system disorders (lupus), inflammatory and hemorrhagic bowel diseases, low-grade joint inflammation, and bone infections (osteomyelitis).
3. Evaluation of Treatment Response
CRP testing is used to monitor a patient’s response to treatment, especially in cancer or infection cases. A rapid increase followed by a quick return to normal CRP levels suggests a positive response to treatment.
Factors Affecting CRP Testing
What is CRP testing? CRP testing is influenced by various factors, including:
1. Health Conditions
- High blood pressure.
- High body mass index (BMI).
- Metabolic syndrome/diabetes.
- Chronic infections like bronchitis or periodontitis.
- Chronic inflammation, such as low-grade joint inflammation.
- Low HDL and high triglycerides.
Diseases and health conditions are among the factors that influence CRP testing
2. Pregnancy Stage and Medication Use
- Women in the later stages of pregnancy.
- Use of contraceptives or hormone therapy.
3. Lifestyle Factors
- Obesity.
- Smoking, which can increase CRP levels.
- Moderate alcohol consumption may decrease CRP levels.
- Weight loss and regular exercise.
4. Medications and Treatment Methods:
- Use of estrogen and progesterone supplements may increase CRP levels.
- Use of fibrate, niacin, and statin medications may decrease CRP levels.
Who Should Undergo Quantitative CRP Testing?
Cardiovascular Risk Assessment
For individuals showing signs of cardiovascular disease or at high risk due to a family history, CRP testing helps assess the likelihood and risk of heart disease, serving as a basis for prevention and treatment decisions.
Treatment Effectiveness Evaluation
Applicable to patients with chronic diseases, infections, or autoimmune disorders undergoing treatment. CRP testing aids in monitoring and assessing the effectiveness of the treatment process, indicating a quick reduction in CRP levels when the patient responds positively to therapy.
Assessment of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Associated with Prolonged Inflammation and Infection
For individuals with prolonged inflammation and infection associated with atherosclerosis, CRP testing plays a vital role in assessing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The results can assist doctors in developing treatment plans to minimize risks and achieve high effectiveness.
Postoperative Treatment Process Evaluation
For individuals post-surgery, CRP testing provides crucial information about postoperative infection status, assisting in decision-making regarding postoperative care.
Testing Procedure for CRP
Preparing for the Test
Patients usually do not need to fast before CRP testing. However, there may be cases where the doctor recommends fasting for 4-12 hours before the test, depending on specific laboratory requirements.
Blood Sample Collection
A healthcare professional will collect a blood sample from the patient’s vein, typically from the arm or wrist.
Applying Pressure and Securing the Blood
After blood collection, the patient needs to apply pressure or place a lightweight object on the venipuncture site to prevent bleeding and swelling.
Preparing the Blood Sample for Testing
The blood sample is placed in collection tubes or other testing components to prepare for quantitative CRP testing.
Performing CRP Testing
The blood sample is sent to the laboratory, where machines or lab technicians conduct quantitative CRP testing to measure the concentration of C-reactive protein in the blood.
Diagnosis and Monitoring
CRP testing results play a crucial role in diagnosing inflammatory conditions, monitoring wound healing, and early detection of cardiovascular disease risk factors.
It is advisable to undergo CRP testing at reputable healthcare facilities
It is advisable to undergo CRP testing at reputable healthcare facilities when experiencing signs of inflammation or cardiovascular disease risk to accurately determine one’s health status. This article provides information about “what is CRP testing” and related knowledge. We hope this article proves helpful to you.”
Kiểm Duyệt Nội Dung
More than 10 years of marketing communications experience in the medical and health field.
Successfully deployed marketing communication activities, content development and social networking channels for hospital partners, clinics, doctors and medical professionals across the country.
More than 6 years of experience in organizing and producing leading prestigious medical programs in Vietnam, in collaboration with Ho Chi Minh City Television (HTV). Typical programs include Nhật Ký Blouse Trắng, Bác Sĩ Nói Gì, Alo Bác Sĩ Nghe, Nhật Ký Hạnh Phúc, Vui Khỏe Cùng Con, Bác Sỹ Mẹ, v.v.
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