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C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test |
Introduction
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test – Complete Medical Guide (India)
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is an inflammation-sensitive protein produced by the liver. In India, CRP testing is widely used to detect hidden infections, assess heart disease risk, monitor tuberculosis, diabetes, arthritis, and evaluate recovery after surgery or COVID-related inflammation.
🔬 Why CRP Matters
CRP rises rapidly within 6–8 hours of tissue injury or infection. Indian clinicians rely on CRP because it is affordable, fast, and reliable—even in early disease stages.
🧪 CRP Test Process
- Venous blood sample
- No fasting required
- Report available within 6–24 hours
- Safe for elderly & chronic patients
📊 CRP Values – Indian Lab Reference
< 1 mg/L – Normal (Healthy adults)
1 – 3 mg/L – Mild inflammation (obesity, smoking, early diabetes)
3 – 10 mg/L – Active infection or chronic disease
> 10 mg/L – Severe infection (TB, pneumonia, sepsis, autoimmune flare)
❤️ hs-CRP & Heart Risk (India)
High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) is critical for Indians due to higher premature heart disease risk.
- < 1 mg/L – Low cardiac risk
- 1–2 mg/L – Moderate risk
- > 2 mg/L – High heart attack riskk
📄 Understanding the Report
CRP indicates presence and intensity of inflammation, not the cause. Doctors correlate it with symptoms, ESR, imaging, and culture tests.