Why is a CRP test prescribed?

A CRP test is prescribed to identify inflammation in the body. Inflammation can result from infections, injuries, or chronic diseases such as arthritis, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The test is also valuable in identifying hidden or systemic infections that might not present clear symptoms. For individuals with chronic inflammatory conditions, the test helps track disease activity and treatment effectiveness. Additionally, a high-sensitivity CRP test (hs-CRP) can assess the risk of cardiovascular diseases by measuring low levels of CRP associated with arterial inflammation. Elevated CRP levels are a marker of higher heart attack or stroke risk. Doctors may recommend this test if you have unexplained symptoms like fever, joint pain, or fatigue or are at risk for cardiovascular conditions. CRP levels alone don’t diagnose a condition, so further tests and clinical evaluations are needed for a comprehensive diagnosis.