What Is a C-Reactive Protein Test Used For?

A C-reactive protein (CRP) test is a blood test used to detect general inflammation. Inflammation is the body's natural response to infection, disease, or injury, so a CRP test can provide the first clue as to whether some sort of inflammatory condition is occurring. A CRP test cannot tell what the source of the inflammation is, but, when combined with other tests such as a complete blood count (CBC), it can help narrow the possible causes. This article walks you through the purpose and uses of the CRP test, including how it is performed and what the results mean. What Is C-Reactive Protein? C-reactive protein is a protein produced by the liver that is normally found in the bloodstream at low levels. When there is any inflammatory condition in the body, the liver will release more. The role of CRP is to activate certain parts of the immune system, specifically white blood cells called macrophages that clear foreign attackers (like bacteria) and dead or dying cells from the body. CRP le...