What do sedimentation rate and c reactive protein levels tell a doctor?
The sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are two tests that are often ordered together to help diagnose and monitor inflammatory conditions.
ESR
ESR is a measure of how quickly red blood cells settle to the bottom of a test tube. In the presence of inflammation, the levels of certain proteins in the blood increase, causing the red blood cells to stick together and form clumps. This causes them to settle more quickly, resulting in a higher ESR.
ESR is a non-specific test, meaning that it can be elevated in a variety of conditions, including:
* Infections
* Inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis and lupus
* Cancer
* Pregnancy
* Anemia
* Kidney disease
* Liver disease
* Thyroid disease
CRP
CRP is a protein that is produced by the liver in response to inflammation. CRP levels rise quickly in response to inflammation and can be detected within a few hours. They typically peak within 24 to 48 hours and then decline as the inflammation resolves.
CRP is a more sensitive marker of inflammation than ESR. It is also more specific, meaning that it is less likely to be elevated in conditions that are not inflammatory. However, CRP levels can also be elevated in some non-inflammatory conditions, such as:
* Obesity
* Diabetes
* Heart disease
* Kidney disease
* Liver disease
Interpretation
The interpretation of ESR and CRP levels depends on the individual patient's symptoms and other laboratory findings. In general, a high ESR or CRP level suggests that there is inflammation in the body. However, the specific cause of the inflammation can only be determined through further testing.
ESR and CRP levels can be used to:
* Diagnose inflammatory conditions
* Monitor the progression of inflammatory conditions
* Assess the response to treatment
By tracking ESR and CRP levels over time, doctors can get a better understanding of the course of an inflammatory condition and make appropriate adjustments to treatment.