Testing for inflammatory markers helps evaluate inflammation in the body, allowing early detection of potential abnormalities. This enables proactive planning for prevention and lifestyle adjustments tailored to individual health needs. If abnormal inflammation levels are detected, timely monitoring and treatment can be initiated
What are the tests for inflammation in the body?
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is the rate at which red blood cells sedimentation rate in 1 hour. It is believed that when inflammation occurs, fibrinogen is produced, which causes red blood cells to stick together, causing it to precipitate quickly. ESR is a non-specific representation of disease and organ causes, but can be used to track the treatment of diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or SLE.
- C-reactive protein (CRP) is a type of protein that the body produces from the liver. It is usually low in the body, but when inflammation occurs, CRP is produced rapidly at 6 hours and peaks within 48 hours. Inflammation of various muscles or tissues CRP is used to diagnose acute rheumatic fever. But CRP testing to assess inflammation is relatively low. Therefore, the hs-CRP (high sensitivity-CRP) test has been developed which is very sensitive and specific to the prediction of coronary artery embolism and accurate assessment of pathology.
Selection of Inflammatory Tests with CRP
- CRP is tested for cases with normal inflammation up to about > 10 mg/L. to assess infection. Inflammation of various muscles or tissues
- hs-CRP measures inflammation at a low level of about < 10 mg/L. to assess cardiovascular disease. Heart and blood lipid values
CRP testing has advantages over ESR, including:
- CRP will give a positive result before ESR and return to normal while ESR is still high.
- CRP does not change in paleness, high blood globulin levels. Pregnancy, allergies
- There is no difference between males and females.
