C-Reactive Protein

What Is C-Reactive Protein?

C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is a liver-derived acute-phase protein that rises in response to the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6. As a marker of systemic inflammation, CRP helps clinicians evaluate both acute infections and chronic inflammatory states.

Why CRP Matters in Chronic Disease

Chronic elevation of CRP is strongly linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular events like coronary artery disease and stroke. In some studies, high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) outperforms traditional lipid panels in predicting heart attacks and ischemic stroke.

CRP Testing: Ranges and Methods

• Standard CRP: 0.00–7.90 mg/L
  
• Optimal CRP: 0.00–3.00 mg/L
  
• High-Sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP): Used specifically for cardiovascular risk stratification

   

Accurate interpretation requires distinguishing routine CRP from hs-CRP assays.

Clinical Conditions Associated with Elevated CRP

• Abdominal Obesity: Excess visceral fat correlates with higher CRP.
  
• Hypertension: Elevated blood pressure fosters vascular inflammation and CRP rises.
  
• Insulin Resistance: Metabolic dysregulation elevates inflammatory markers, including CRP.
  
• Periodontal Disease: Chronic gum inflammation nearly doubles heart attack risk and drives CRP upward.
  
• Smoking: Tobacco use provokes systemic inflammation and increases CRP levels.

   

Factors That Can Skew CRP Results

Falsely Low CRP

• Medications: Statins, fibrates, niacin, NSAIDs
  
• Lifestyle: Weight loss, moderate alcohol use

   

Falsely High CRP

• Lipemia: High blood lipids interfere with assay
  
• Infection or Recent Injury: Acute stressors elevate CRP
  
• Hormone Therapy: Estrogen or progesterone use
  
• Smoking

   

Integrating CRP into Clinical Practice

1. Routine Screening: Include CRP or hs-CRP in annual labs for high-risk patients.
   
2. Lifestyle Interventions: Target weight management, smoking cessation, and periodontal care to lower CRP.
   
3. Medication Optimization: Adjust therapies with awareness of their impact on CRP levels.

    

In conclusion, a comprehensive evaluation by a functional medicine practitioner in Florida facilitates identification of cellular-level and molecular imbalances underlying clinical presentations. By integrating evidence-based allopathic therapies with a functional medicine integrative approach—encompassing quantitative biomarker profiling, individualized nutritional and lifestyle interventions, and targeted therapeutics—this strategy transcends symptomatic management to address root pathophysiology. Acknowledging that systemic health originates at the cellular level, this combined framework establishes a robust foundation for enhanced physiological resilience, preventive care, and longevity. Explore our IV Therapy service to further support your wellness journey.

Further Reading

1. Schuetz, P., Wirz, Y., Sager, R., Christ-Crain, M., Stolz, D., Tamm, M., … & Mueller, B. (2023). Use of C-reactive protein to guide the antibiotic therapy in hospitalized patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Critical Care, 27(1), 1-11.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37138222/

2. Aabenhus, R., Jensen, J. U., Jørgensen, K. J., Hróbjartsson, A., & Bjerrum, L. (2014). Use of C-reactive protein to tailor antibiotic use: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open, 4(3), e004635.
   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6318522/

3. Pepys, M. B., & Hirschfield, G. M. (2003). C-reactive protein: a critical update. The Journal of Clinical Investigation, 111(12), 1805-1812.
   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441843/

4. Simon, L., Gauvin, F., Amre, D. K., Saint-Louis, P., & Lacroix, J. (2004). Serum procalcitonin and C-reactive protein levels as markers of bacterial infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 39(2), 206-217.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15227609/