C REACTIVE PROTEIN (CRP)

C-reactive protein (CRP) is made by your liver and released to your body in response to inflammation.

What is CRP used for?

The level of CRP can be used to:

- detect if there is inflammation in your body

- help diagnose a chronic inflammatory disease such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis

- determine your risk of heart attack (a high level of CRP increases the risk of having a heart attack): but note that there are other factors apart from CRP that also increases your risk of heart attack.

An example of how CRP was used by Prem Nand, Clinical Dietitian-Nutritionist, NZRD

A client with back injury who was also obese came to weight loss clinic. Assessment showed that he felt a bit off and also stated that at times, he felt that he was cold. He indicated that a part of his back felt tender and sore. He stated that he had seen the GP but was told that this was related to him being obese. Prem recommended that he had a CRP test done. The results showed that high level of CRP. GP also had a scan done and charted antibiotic. Scan showed that there was collection of fluid at the injury site. After a stint of antibiotics, the pain resolved and further CRP test by the GP showed that patient was clear of inflammation.

Note: Do not exercise before a CRP test as exercise elevates CRP levels!