About this test
CRP is a protein made by the liver that rises in the blood when there is inflammation or infection. It is more specific and faster to change than ESR, and is often used to check how active an infection or inflammatory condition is.
Why it is done
- To help tell whether an illness is likely to be a bacterial infection.
- To follow inflammation and the response to treatment.
- To support the diagnosis of inflammatory conditions.
Preparation
No special preparation is usually needed.
This information is general and is not medical advice. Please speak to your doctor about your results and treatment.