A protein that is one of the first to be produced in the body in response to inflammation or cell death. The protein is named due to its function in reacting with the C component of the bacterial cell wall (the body’s primary defense against bacteria). C-reactive protein (CRP) brings into contact with immune cells and positively affects their defense abilities – increased vagility, activation of the function of absorption and destruction of microbes. 4 hours after tissue damage, CRP concentration increases, reaching a maximum in 24-72 hours. In the recovery process, the protein level begins to decrease.

Thus, the main diagnostic value of CRP is to reflect the acute inflammatory and necrotic process (tissue damage under the influence of various factors), as well as the course of disease. The test has an advantage over similar erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): CRP rises much earlier and falls faster (CRP - 6-10 days; SLE - 2-4 weeks); this allows a more adequate assessment of the course of disease.

The test allows to distinguish between certain diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In SLE, there is no increase in CRP. In addition, viral and spirochete infections cause a slight increase in the protein (up to 10-30mg/l), while rheumatic diseases and bacterial diseases - up to 100mg/l; septicemia (blood poisoning) - up to 300mg/l or more!