Why it is performed
- Support assessment of inflammation or infection.
- Follow progression and treatment response.
- Interpret ferritin or other inflammation-sensitive markers.
- High-sensitivity CRP has a different, mainly cardiovascular use and is not automatically interchangeable.
How it is performed
CRP concentration is measured by immunoassay. A raised value indicates inflammatory activation but does not identify the location or cause by itself.
Preparation
- No special preparation unless part of another panel.
- Report recent infection, surgery, trauma, pregnancy and medication.
- Timing matters when following a trend.
How Askabide processes it
At Askabide
Askabide may process it by fluorescence immunoassay on ichroma II when the cartridge is available, in date, calibrated and quality controlled. Otherwise it is referred.
The main analytical phase is performed in the centre’s laboratory, subject to availability and validation.
Results and indicative intervals
Intervals vary by method, analyser, reagent, units, age, sex, pregnancy, menstrual-cycle phase and reference population. The valid interval is the one printed on the laboratory report.
| Parameter or result | Indicative reference | How it is interpreted |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional CRP | Habitualmente <5 mg/L | Exact limit depends on method. Mild and marked elevations have many causes. |
| Trend | Comparación seriada | Change over time is often more useful than a single value. |
Important limitations
- It does not by itself distinguish bacterial from viral infection.
- A low CRP does not exclude a very early or localised infection.
- It must not be the sole criterion for antibiotics or discharge.
- High-sensitivity CRP requires specific methods and ranges.