C-reactive protein--a screening test for coronary disease?

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cardiology
• Inflammation Research

Background:

• C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase reactant indicating inflammation.
• Traditionally used for infectious/inflammatory conditions.
• Emerging role in cardiovascular disease risk assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• Review research on CRP and cardiovascular/mortality risk.
• Evaluate CRP as a marker for coronary artery disease.
• Outline current applications of CRP in risk assessment.

Main Methods:

• Review of published research on CRP and cardiovascular outcomes.
• Analysis of CRP's predictive value in individuals with and without known coronary artery disease.
• Assessment of sensitive, high-volume CRP assay availability.

Main Results:

• CRP is a valuable predictor of future events in patients with existing coronary artery disease.
• Elevated CRP within conventional "normal" ranges is linked to coronary disease risk.
• Use of CRP as a screening test for healthy individuals is considered premature.

Conclusions:

• CRP is a significant marker for predicting cardiovascular events, especially in those with known disease.
• Further research is needed before widespread use of CRP for screening healthy populations.
• CRP's role in cardiovascular risk assessment is evolving.