High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein

CRP is a marker of inflammation that has been shown in multiple prospective epidemiological studies to predict incident myocardial infraction, stroke, peripheral arterial disease and sudden cardiac death.

CRP levels of <1, 1 to 3, and >3mg/L correspond to low-, moderate-, and high risk groups for future cardiovascular events.

To date, over a dozen prospective epidemiological studies carried out among individuals with no prior history of cardiovascular disease demonstrate that single, non-fasting measure of CRP is a strong predictor of future vascular events.

This relationship has been consistent in the United States and Europe and in most cases is independent of age, smoking, cholesterol levels, blood pressure and diabetes.

In one recent study, CRP was strong predictor of risk even 20 years after blood samples were obtained. CRP levels minimally correlate with lipid levels of LDL or HDL.

In terms of clinical application, CRP seems to be a stronger predictor of cardiovascular events that LDL cholesterol.

CRP levels are stable for long periods of time and not affected by food intake.

Last we believe that CRP testing should be ordered along with lipid profiles to identify apparently healthy men and women at risk of developing cardiovascular events.