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 for its function of reacting with the C component of the bacteria cell wall (the body's primary defense mechanism against bacteria).

Previously, it was believed that the concentration of CRP below 5mg/l (for comparison - in some diseases the level of CRP can increase up to 300 mg/l) indicates the absence of inflammatory reaction in the body. Later scientific work has revealed that CRP above 3mg/L is a poor prognostic sign of vascular disease risk not only in patients suffering from cardiovascular disease, but also in practically healthy people.

Risk degrees:

• Less than 1.0 mg/L - minimal
• 1.1 - 1.9 mg/L - low
• 2.0 - 2.9 mg/L - medium
• More than 3.0 mg/L - high.

However, it is known that even a minor cold can cause an increase in CRP up to 20 mg/L! Thus, a highly sensitive method has been developed to determine the "stock" concentration of CRP.

According to the University of Auckland (New Zealand), regular total monitoring of fat metabolism (HDL, LDL, total cholesterol) and CRP allows to choose the optimal therapy. Increased levels of cardio-CRP reflect the activity of inflammation, which is associated with the development of atherosclerotic plaque.

Consequently, an increase in cardio-CRP concentration is considered as a characteristic sign of atherosclerosis.