C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Blood Test, High Sensitivity, Cardiac Risk Assessment

What is the purpose of this test?

Order this High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) Blood Test to measure the hs-CRP levels in the blood to assess the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). Due to inflammation, infection, and following a heart attack or surgery, the C-reactive protein may be found at elevated levels in the blood. Research suggests that a constant low level of inflammation plays a significant role in atherosclerosis, the narrowing of blood vessels due to the build-up of cholesterol and other lipids. This build-up of cholesterol and lipids is often associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Therefore, this High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) Blood Test may help identify low but constant levels of inflammation and indicate an individual's risk of developing CVD.

What conditions increase the risk of developing CVD?

According to the American Heart Association, CVD causes more deaths in the U.S. annually than any other cause. There are several risk factors associated with the development of CVD, including:

• Family history
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Excess weight
• Diabetes

Still, many people with few or no identified risk factors will also develop CVD. As a result, there have been more studies into additional risk factors that may cause CVD or that could be used to determine appropriate lifestyle changes and treatments that could reduce CVD risk. For example, high sensitivity CRP testing is a popular biomarker used to help determine an individual's cardiac risk. 

Studies have shown that evaluating CRP along with a high sensitivity assay may help determine the risk level for CVD in seemingly healthy individuals. This highly sensitive test can measure CRP levels within the higher end of the reference range. Normal yet slightly elevated hs-CRP levels in healthy individuals can forecast the potential risk of the following cardiac-related conditions:

• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Sudden cardiac death
• Peripheral arterial disease

When should I order a High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) Blood Test?

Individuals may order this High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) Blood Test if they have an increased risk for CVD and to monitor lifestyle changes and treatment. Other risk factors that increase the risk of developing CVD include:

• Men 50 years old or younger and women 60 years old or younger
• Pre-existing conditions (heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, or inflammatory conditions)
• Elevated levels of cholesterol, LDL-C, triglycerides, and glucose
• Smoking
• High blood pressure (hypertension)