Your CRP level is one of the most commonly measured blood values. CRP (C-reactive protein) is a protein your liver produces in response to inflammation. An elevated CRP signals an inflammatory response somewhere in your body.
What is CRP?
CRP is an acute-phase protein produced rapidly during infection, inflammation or tissue damage. It is a non-specific marker: it tells you inflammation exists, but not where or why. This broad sensitivity makes it valuable as a screening value.
Normal values
Below 5 mg/L: normal. 5-10: mildly elevated. 10-50: moderately elevated (active inflammation). Above 50: significantly elevated (medical assessment needed). Above 200: severe infection possible.
What can elevated CRP mean?
Acute causes include infections, injuries and acute inflammation. Chronic causes include autoimmune diseases, obesity, smoking and cardiovascular disease.
hs-CRP for cardiovascular risk
High-sensitivity CRP measures the same marker with greater precision in the low range. Below 1 mg/L: low cardiovascular risk. 1-3: moderate. Above 3: elevated risk.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast for a CRP test?
No, fasting is not required.
How quickly does CRP drop after infection?
CRP halves every 18-20 hours once the cause resolves. It typically returns to normal within a week of recovery.
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