C-reactive protein (CRP)
is made in the liver and can be used to test inflammation of the liver much faster.
C-reactive protein (CRP) Overview
Reviewed: April 22, 2014
Updated:
C-reactive protein (CRP) is produced by the liver when there is acute inflammation and tissues are destroyed in the body. CRP usually rises within 6 hours of the start of inflammation, allowing inflammation to be confirmed much sooner.
CRP is measured in milligram per deciliter (mg/dL). A normal level for CRP is less than 0.8 mg/dL.
Technique
Blood draw
Preparation
No fasting is usually required before the test, although some laboratories do require a fast for 4-12 hours before the test. Water intake is allowed.
What the results mean
Elevated CRP may be seen with bacterial infection, sepsis, acute pancreatitis, lupus, heart attack, inflammatory bowel disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
