A C-reactive protein (CRP) test measures the level of CRP in your blood. CRP is a protein made by your liver that increases when there is inflammation in your body. A "positive" CRP result, therefore, doesn't mean you have something good, but rather it indicates the presence of inflammation. So the question 'How much CRP is positive?' can be rephrased to 'What CRP levels are considered high or elevated and what does it mean?'. Here's a breakdown:
Understanding CRP Levels
The reference provided by Agilus Diagnostics Ltd. explains that a CRP level is considered elevated when it goes above a specific threshold. These elevated levels are categorized as moderately or dangerously high:
- Moderately High CRP: A CRP level between 10 mg/L and 100 mg/L is considered moderately high. This signifies a notable amount of inflammation in the body.
- Dangerously High CRP: A CRP level above 100 mg/L is considered dangerously high, indicating severe inflammation and a higher risk of cardiovascular problems.
| CRP Level (mg/L) | Interpretation | Implications |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 10 | Normal to low | Minimal inflammation |
| 10-100 | Moderately High | Significant inflammation present |
| Above 100 | Dangerously High | Severe inflammation; high cardiovascular risk |
What High CRP Means
- Inflammation: Elevated CRP levels indicate inflammation within the body. This can result from various conditions, such as infections, autoimmune diseases, or tissue injury.
- Cardiovascular Risk: As stated in the reference, higher CRP levels increase the risk of cardiovascular conditions. This is because inflammation plays a significant role in the development of heart disease.
- Disease Monitoring: Doctors often use CRP levels to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for inflammatory conditions.
Example Situations
- A patient with a CRP level of 30 mg/L is considered to have moderately high inflammation.
- A patient with a CRP level of 150 mg/L is at a higher risk of cardiovascular issues due to severe inflammation.
Importance of Testing
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to interpret CRP results, as they will consider your full medical history and other factors to determine the appropriate course of action.
