What does a CRP blood test measure?
A CRP blood test measures inflammation in the body. CRP is a smoke detector for inflammation anywhere: infections, flares of autoimmune disease, injury and more all raise it. It shouts that something is happening without saying what or where.
Very high levels lean bacterial; mild elevations are frustratingly nonspecific, even obesity and smoking nudge CRP up chronically.
Its best use is trend and context: falling CRP confirms treatment is working. A mildly raised CRP in a well person usually merits a recheck rather than a hunt. Interpretation belongs beside your symptoms, not on its own.
Source: MedlinePlus, CRP blood test
See a doctor promptly if
- Hemoglobin well below the normal range with breathlessness, chest pain, or dizziness on standing
- Potassium below 3.0 mmol/L or above 6.0 mmol/L. This needs same-day contact, not a routine appointment
- A sudden large rise in creatinine, or a new drop in eGFR, especially with reduced urine output
- Liver enzymes several times the upper limit with yellow eyes, dark urine, pale stools, or right upper abdominal pain
- Platelets under 50 x10^9/L, or a very high or very low white cell count with fever
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Answered by the AskDoc Medical Team · Medically reviewed under our Medical Director, MBBS · How we review
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