High Sentsitivity C-Reactive Protein
What is CRP?
C-Reactive
protein (CRP) is a marker in the bloodstream that indicates
inflammation. Many studies have shown an association between
elevated levels of inflammatory markers (including CRP) and
the future development of heart disease, even in apparently
healthy individuals.
What is hsCRP?
Regular CRP and hsCRP tests both measure the same molecule in the blood, however the hsCRP measures only the very low ranges of CRP, from 0.10 to 10 mg/L (regular 10 to 1000 mg/L.). Only in measuring these lower levels of CRP can the risk of heart disease be predicted in individuals not yet known to have a problem. The hsCRP test detects inflammation that makes artery blockages likely to rupture and cause a heart attack. The inflammation may be a key factor in creating those blockages long before the rupture occurs.
Why should you be tested?
The results from hsCRP tests help predict a healthy person's risk of cardiovascular disease. Even those with a history of heart disease can be evaluated for risk of recurrence. The hsCRP is usually one of several tests in a cardiovascular risk profile, often included with tests for total cholesterol, HDL (high density lipoprotein), TC/HDL ratio, triglycerides, and LDL (low density lipoprotein.) Of the more than 2 million heart attacks and strokes that occur in the United States each year, almost half will affect apparently healthy men and women with normal or even low cholesterol levels. The hsCRP test is endorsed by both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and by the American Heart Association.