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• immune system biology
• signs and symptoms
• investigations
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C-Reactive Protein

 

The Protein is synthesized by the liver promptly after tissue injury. Plasma levels increase as early as 4 hours after an injury, increasing more than 1000x and peaks within 48 hours. It clears within 18 hours.

Normal levels are between 0-8 mg/dl.

Interpretation
Synthesis of CRP requires sufficient concentration of inflammatory mediators to reach the liver. It is a more timely indicator of inflammation, being unaffected by age, anemia, pregnancy, as

 

CRP is not usually increased in multiple myeloma or diseases with polyclonal gammopathy.