Risks and limits of CRP Test

The CRP test measures a non-specific inflammatory marker. It can indicate acute or chronic inflammation but does not identify the cause. Risks are minimal (blood draw). Limitations include low specificity: CRP is elevated in infections, autoimmune diseases, tissue damage, but also in obesity, smoking, or stress. Single measurements are hard to interpret. There are no standardized reference ranges for all populations. The test is not diagnostic for specific diseases; it serves as a supplementary clue. High values should always be evaluated by a clinician. Evidence for the benefit of home CRP tests is weak; they may cause unnecessary anxiety or false reassurance.