C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
Whether you are aware of it or not, your body fights inflammation constantly. From benign causes like the food we eat to seasonal allergies, to potentially serious conditions like bacterial infection or vitamin deficiency, inflammation is an important part of the immune system. Without it, infections would never heal, wounds would never close, and irritants would wreak havoc throughout the body.
C-reactive protein is produced by the liver and indicates the level of inflammation in the body. By measuring the level of C-reactive protein in the body, Dr. Bereliani can assess your risk for developing inflammatory cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis.
How is inflammation related to coronary heart disease?
Sometimes heart damage can occur from ongoing inflammation within the arterial wall. Often when people develop a bacterial infection, the bacteria will enter the bloodstream. White blood cells are dispatched to fight off infection within the arterial wall, causing inflammation. Because white blood cells have a hard time removing LDL from the bloodstream the immune system can get locked into a vicious cycle of mobilizing more and more white blood cells, causing more inflammation, which can lead to atherosclerosis and high blood pressure. C-reactive protein is released for any type of inflammation in the body, so an elevated level is not necessarily a sign of cardiovascular disease, however people with elevated levels have shown to have nearly double the risk of heart attack. A CRP test is also a good way to catch other forms of inflammatory disease – which may predispose you to diabetes, cancer, and other serious health conditions.
How is a CRP test performed?
CRP is a simple blood test, which is usually performed in conjunction with the other advanced diagnostic labs that comprise a Cardiac Risk Assessment.
How do I find out if a CRP diagnostic test might be appropriate for me?
Call the Beverly Hills Institute for Preventive Medicine and Cardiology at 310-550-8000 or click here to make an appointment. Our friendly, helpful staff will be glad to schedule a consultation for you with Dr. Bereliani, and to answer any questions you might have. We are conveniently located in the heart of Beverly Hills, within easy driving distance for most residents of greater Los Angeles.