Summary

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a protein produced by the liver and is a crucial biomarker in assessing inflammation in the body. Elevated levels of CRP indicate an inflammatory response, which could be due to infections, autoimmune diseases, or other medical conditions. 

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Overview

CRP is an acute-phase protein, meaning its levels in the blood surge in response to inflammation. When there is an inflammation in the body, the liver produces more CRP, which can bind to the surface of dying or dead cells and activate the immune system to dispose of them.^[1] 

CRP tests can show whether you have inflammation in your body and to what extent, but they cannot show what is causing it or which part of your body is inflamed. To make a diagnosis, your provider will look at your CRP results and the results of other tests, your symptoms, and your medical history. CRP tests can be useful not only in diagnosing certain conditions but also in monitoring chronic inflammation. 

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What should you know about this biomarker?

Each laboratory uses different machines and protocols, so the results might vary in terms of the reference ranges or used units of measurement. In Macromo blood tests, we use mg/l (milligrams per liter).

Optimal CRP levels are typically below 5 mg/l, with higher levels indicating a pathological condition or its increased risk. Healthcare professionals must interpret CRP levels within the context of an individual's overall health and other risk factors.^[2] 

Your blood test results can fall into one of five potential categories:^[6]

• Normal CRP levels are below 3 mg/l and can be seen in healthy adults.
• The CRP levels of 3 to 10 mg/l can be considered normal or minorly elevated. It can indicate pregnancy, obesity, smoking, depression, or cardiovascular risk.
• Moderately elevated CRP is 10 to 100 mg/l and can be observed in autoimmune conditions, cancers, heart attacks, etc.
• The marked elevation is considered to be CRP more than 100 mg/l and can be seen in acute bacterial or viral infections or significant trauma. 
• CRP greater than 500 mg/l is severely elevated and usually points to a severe acute bacterial infection. 

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Genetics

It has been observed that CRP is a heritable trait and that genetic factors explain the variation in serum CRP levels along with environmental factors such as gender, smoking, and obesity. Furthermore, it has been shown that CRP levels can vary among different ethnic populations, suggesting an ethnically heterogeneous genetic background of CRP levels.^[3]  

Another study also identified several SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) that influence the circulating CRP levels. However, none have been linked to the changes in blood pressure.^[4] ‍

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Recommendations

If your levels of CRP marker are not within the recommended range, it is important to take some steps^[5]:

• Consume a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• If you are overweight, lose excess weight to help reduce CRP levels.
• Engage in moderate exercise on a daily basis, it could be regular walking sessions, jogging or swimming, as it can have anti-inflammatory effects.
• Reduce your intake of foods high in sugar and processed carbohydrates, as they can increase inflammation.
• If you smoke, it is recommended to stop. Smoking is known to increase inflammation.
• Engage in stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or spending time with loved ones.

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The information and tests provided on our website are for educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making health decisions. Our tests do not diagnose or treat diseases. Individual results may vary and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.