C - Reactive Protein (CRP)
CRP is an acute-phase protein and is useful in detecting and evaluating infection, tissue injury, and inflammation. It also helps physicians to assess the risk of heart disease, stroke or any other condition associated with inflammation.
Why is the test ordered?
A physician may prescribe this test to detect inflammation, which may be due to arthritis, lupus, heart disease, bone infections, inflammatory bowel disease and lymphoma. The test may also be ordered to monitor the treatment process of a condition which is known to cause inflammation, such as cancer or infection.
When is the test ordered?
A physician may recommend this test along with other tests to evaluate a person’s risk for stroke, heart disease or any other inflammatory disease besides assessing the risk of infection post-surgery. Doctors may also need this test to track diseases that are known to cause inflammation, including certain autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease.
How is the sample collected?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein that is located in the elbow or the back of the hand.
How to prepare for the test?
No special preparation required for this test.
