I’ve been reading about the CRP test and heart disease. What can you tell me about it?
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a chemical released by the body in response to injury, infection, or other inflammation. Atheromatous plaques in diseased arteries contain inflammatory cells. Rupture of these plaques is thought to be the mechanism for acute MI (myocardial infarction). Some studies have shown a positive association between CRP and coronary artery disease, and others are suggestive that a baseline CRP test is a good marker of future cardiovascular events. Many studies are ongoing at this time regarding the CRP test. No single test, however, replaces a thorough evaluation by your physician, along with following his/her recommendations.
