What is CRP blood test for?

A CRP blood test measures the level of C-reactive protein (CRP) in your blood. CRP is a protein produced by your liver in response to inflammation in the body. It's often used as a marker for inflammation, infection, or tissue damage.

The CRP blood test is commonly used to:

* Diagnose and monitor infections, such as bacterial pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and sepsis

* Assess the risk of heart disease and stroke

* Monitor inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and vasculitis

* Evaluate the effectiveness of treatment for inflammatory conditions

* Detect certain types of cancer, such as lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and lymphoma

* Determine the severity of certain medical conditions, such as burns, trauma, and surgery

Your doctor may order a CRP blood test if you have symptoms of inflammation or infection, such as:

* Fever

* Chills

* Fatigue

* Muscle aches

* Joint pain

* Swelling

* Redness

* Increased heart rate

* Shortness of breath

* Chest pain

The CRP blood test is a simple blood test that can be performed in a doctor's office or hospital. The results of the test are usually available within a few days.

The normal range for CRP levels varies depending on the age and sex of the person being tested. In general, CRP levels below 10 mg/L (milligrams per liter) are considered normal. Levels between 10 and 100 mg/L may indicate inflammation or infection, while levels above 100 mg/L may indicate severe inflammation or infection.

The CRP blood test is a useful tool for diagnosing and monitoring inflammatory conditions and infections. However, it's important to note that a high CRP level does not necessarily indicate a serious medical condition. Your doctor will interpret your CRP results in the context of your overall symptoms and medical history to determine the appropriate course of action.