[CRP--a marker of a pro-inflammatory state and cardiovascular risk]

R Poledne1, Z Valenta, J Pit'ha

  • 1Laborator pro výzkum aterosklerózy, Pracovistĕ experimentální medicíny IKEM Praha. rudolf.poledne@ikem.cz

Vnitrni Lekarstvi
|June 21, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels correlate with cardiovascular disease risk factors but are influenced by genetics and lifestyle. Therefore, hsCRP is not currently recommended for routine atherosclerosis risk assessment.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Genetics

Context:

  • Elevated basal levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), measured by a highly sensitive test (hsCRP), have been recognized for over a decade.
  • Increased hsCRP concentration is associated with numerous classical risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Purpose:

  • To evaluate the clinical utility of hsCRP in assessing individual atherosclerosis risk.
  • To determine if hsCRP can be routinely used for risk stratification.

Summary:

  • While hsCRP correlates with cardiovascular risk factors, its interpretation is complicated.
  • hsCRP levels are influenced by genetic factors and lifestyle modifications.
  • These confounding factors limit the current routine application of hsCRP for atherosclerosis risk assessment.

Impact:

  • This study suggests that hsCRP should not be routinely employed for assessing individual atherosclerosis risk at present.
  • Further research may be needed to clarify the role of hsCRP in personalized cardiovascular risk prediction.

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