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What is C-Reactive Protein (CRP)?

By Carol & Richard Eustice, About.com

Updated February 01, 2005

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is a plasma protein which increases during inflammation. As a blood test, CRP is not specific. A high result serves as a general indication of acute inflammation. Doctors can utilize the CRP test to assess the effectiveness of a specific arthritis treatment and monitor periods of disease flareup.
Common Misspellings: CPR
Examples:
The doctor ordered a blood test for CRP as an indicator of inflammation.
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