C-reactive protein, sensitive method
S -hsCRP ATK 8022
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a protein that shows increased concentration during inflammatory conditions in the body. Even a slight rise in CRP levels indicates a low-grade inflammation, which can be influenced by various factors like lifestyle, obesity, diet, and stress. This mild inflammation often lacks evident symptoms, unlike the pronounced manifestations seen in inflammatory states caused by viral and bacterial infections.
CRP is not only formed in the liver but also in the smooth muscle cells of the coronary arteries. Even a minor increase in CRP is believed to be associated with the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases.
Indications
Identification of subtle inflammation. Evaluation of cardiovascular disease risk. Used as a supplementary measure, complementing results obtained from lipid profiling, for instance.
Sample
1 mL of serum
Storage and delivery
The sample can be refrigerated for up to a week, but for longer storage, it should be kept frozen. Delivery at room temperature, if it arrives within 24 hours.
Method
Immunoturbidometric, accredited method.
Turnaround time
1 – 2 weekdays
Reference ranges
| Lapset, 8 vrk – 17 v | 0.06 – 3 mg/l |
| Miehet, alkaen 18 v | 0.05 – 2.5 mg/l |
| Naiset, alkaen 18 v | 0.05 – 3 mg/l |
The relative risk of coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular events, and peripheral artery disease:
| below 1 mg/L, low risk |
| 1 – 3 mg/L, slightly increased or medium risk |
| yli 3 mg/L, clearly increased risk |
Interpretation of results
Low-grade inflammation is believed to elevate the risk of arterial disease and atherothrombosis due to its contribution to arteriosclerosis formation. A sensitive CRP measurement provides an indication of the level of low-grade inflammation in the body and can serve as a predictor of cardiovascular events.
Moreover, low-grade inflammation can manifest in various other conditions, including metabolic syndrome, obesity, type-2 diabetes, periodontal inflammation, smoking, physical inactivity, stress, and intestinal inflammation.
References:
Ravitsemustiede, Duodecim 2021 (toim. M. Mutanen, H. Niinikoski, U. Schwab, M. Uusitupa)
Stancel, N. et al.: Interplay between CRP, Atherogenic LDL, and LOX-1 and Its Potential Role in the Pathogenesis of Atherosclerosis. Clinical Chemistry 62:2, 320–327, 2016.
Pearson TA, Mensah GA, Alexander RW, et al. Markers of inflammation and cardiovascular disease: application to clinical and public health practice: a statement for healthcare professionals from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Heart Association. Circulation 2003;107:499–511.
Inquiries
martin.tornudd@milalab.fi
Last update 8.8.2023
