Understanding Your CRP
CRP (C-Reactive Protein) is a protein made by the liver that rises with inflammation. It is a useful marker for detecting and monitoring inflammation in the body.
What It Measures
Your liver releases CRP into the blood when there is inflammation, and the level can rise quickly. Because it responds fast, CRP is helpful for spotting new inflammation and tracking how it changes.
Like the ESR, CRP shows that inflammation is present but not exactly where or why.
What Your Results Can Mean
| Result | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Normal / LowLittle Inflammation | No strong sign of active inflammation. |
| ElevatedInflammation Present | Suggests inflammation from infection, injury, or an inflammatory condition. A high CRP often accompanies a significant infection. |
| Trending DownImproving | A falling CRP over time can show that an infection or inflammation is responding to treatment. |
What’s Most Important to Know
CRP is nonspecific, so we read it together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests rather than on its own.
It is also useful for tracking a known condition over time. Dr. Mui will explain what your CRP means in context.
This page is for general education and does not replace a conversation with your doctor about your specific results. Want to review your results? Book a visit and we’ll go through them together.