Why get tested?To identify the presence of
inflammation, to determine its severity, and to monitor response to treatment. Research work suggests a more sensitive form of the test, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (
hs-CRP), can help assess your risk of heart disease but currently this is not routinely available.
When to get tested?When your doctor suspects that you might be suffering from an inflammatory disorder (as with certain types of
arthritis and
autoimmune disorders or inflammatory bowel disease) or to check for the possibility of infection (especially after surgery)
Sample required?A blood sample taken from a vein in your arm