Homonym: CRP (C-Reactive)
CRP, or C-reactive protein, is a substance produced by the liver in response to inflammation. It is often measured through a blood test to help detect inflammatory conditions, infections, and chronic diseases. Elevated levels of CRP can indicate the presence of inflammation in the body, which may be linked to various health issues, including autoimmune disorders and heart disease.
Doctors use CRP tests to monitor the effectiveness of treatments and to assess the risk of developing certain conditions. While CRP is a useful marker, it is not specific to any one disease, so further testing may be needed to determine the underlying cause of inflammation.