If you have Crohn’s, your doctor has probably ordered a C-Reactive Protein test, or CRP test, as an inflammation marker. In fact, it’s one of the two of the most important tests for monitoring overall inflammation in the body (the other is the SED rate test). But what is CRP – and what do the levels tell us?
The CRP test measures the level of Cal-Reactive Protein in your bloodstream. CRP is made in the liver and is part of a group of proteins called acute phase reactants. Your body sends these out in response to inflammation, injury, or infection.
How it works – targeting for strike
Once released into the bloodstream, CRPs and other acute phase reactant proteins act like targets calling out strikes. They attach themselves to microbes and material from dead or damaged cells. This identifies the particles for attack by phagocytes – literally “cell eaters.”
Phagocytes are white blood cells that gobble up bacteria or cell debris. First, the outer membrane of each white blood cell gets stuck to a targeted particle. Once attached, the white blood cell surrounds the particle until it is completely contained within the cell membrane. Finally, enzymes “digest” the offender, making it harmless.
Why test for CRPs?
High CRP levels show that your body is responding to inflammation and infection. Testing can help doctors monitor how well treatments are working or how chronic disease is progressing. Because CRP levels rise before symptoms are present, they can be early indicators of flares and remission.
How is it done?
CRP test is one of several simple blood tests that are usually batched together for Crohn’s testing. A small amount of blood is drawn with a needle and collected into a vial. It’s sent to a lab where it’s mixed with an antiserum to isolate the protein.
What do the numbers mean?
Normally, CRP levels will be less than 10 mg/L. Higher levels could indicate infection, disease flare, or other health concerns. Lower numbers can accompany remission or healing.
How can I lower my CRP?
As you heal from infection and inflammation, your CRP levels will most likely drop. Follow an anti-inflammatory diet and lifestyle. And make sure you are getting some kind of regular, rhythmic exercise if you are able.
Sources:
[1] https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003356.htm
[2] http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/c-reactive-protein/basics/results/prc-20014480
[3] https://courses.washington.edu/conj/inflammation/innatephagocytosis.htm
[4] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3053509/
“Laboratory Lab Tube (high Resolution 3d Image)” by Boykung courstesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net