C-Reactive Protein (Qualitative)

If you suffer from high cholesterol levels, you have probably been asked by your doctor or healthcare provider to lower your low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. LDL cholesterol is often called “bad” cholesterol since it blocks the blood vessels and increases the chances of having a heart attack or stroke.

To understand the contributors of heart attacks, many doctors prescribe the C-reactive protein test.

C-reactive protein (CRP) is produced by the liver. Its level rises due to inflammation in the body. The C-reactive protein test measures the levels of C-reactive protein in the blood. When the body comes in contact with external agents such as bacteria, viruses, or toxic chemicals, the immune system is activated. It sends out cells that begin an inflammatory response.

As a result of the inflammatory response, you may experience symptoms like swelling, pain, redness, or bruising.

However, these are signs that are visible to you. Internally, the inflammation affects many body systems that are not visible to you.

Your body may generally experience a low C-reactive Protein level. Moderate or highly elevated levels may be concerning and indicate an inflammatory condition or serious infection.

Your doctor may recommend you a C-reactive protein test to diagnose the following conditions:

• Serious bacterial infections like sepsis
• Arthritis 
• Certain fungal infections
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis 
• Osteomyelitis or bone infection
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

Many healthcare providers or doctors prescribe the C-reactive protein test to monitor patients who have undergone certain surgeries or other procedures. This test is done to check for any infection that may have been caused during a patient’s recovery period.

If the C-reactive protein level in your body is high, it can increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes. If a person has previously suffered from a heart attack due to a high C-reactive protein level, they are more likely to suffer from another one.

The C-reactive protein test is helpful for patients with a 10%-20% chance of suffering from a heart attack within the next ten years. It is most useful for people who are at risk of suffering from one immediately.

Apollo 24|7 offers a comprehensive C-reactive protein test to measure your risk levels. Based on the results, you must immediately seek treatment and take active steps toward protecting your health. 

Medically reviewed by Dr. Shoukat Ali Abbas, General physician, Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai