Clinical Information

C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase protein whose concentration rises non-specifically in response to inflammation. CRP increases as a result of the inflammatory process, most notably in response to pneumococcal (bacterial) infection, histolytic disease, and a variety of other disease states. Intraindividual variation is a major limitation of the assay when the assay is used for directing therapies. Intra-individual variations of the CRP levels range from 30% to 60%. Serial measurement may be required to estimate true mean of CRP depending on the intended use in any specific individual. CRP is used as a marker or general diagnostic indicator of infections and inflammation, in addition to serving as a monitor of patient response to pharmacological therapy and surgery.