Is hsCRP useful for Wechseljahre?

Is hsCRP useful during menopause? Based on current evidence, the answer is: yes, but with caveats. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) is a well-established marker of systemic inflammation and is used in cardiovascular risk assessment. During menopause, estrogen decline leads to increased inflammatory activity and higher cardiovascular risk. Observational studies consistently show that postmenopausal women have elevated hsCRP levels, which correlate with increased risk of heart disease and stroke. However, hsCRP is not a specific marker for menopausal symptoms like hot flashes or mood changes. It can be influenced by many factors—infection, smoking, obesity, and even recent exercise. Therefore, a single hsCRP measurement is only useful when interpreted alongside other clinical data. For women in menopause, hsCRP can be a valuable addition to a comprehensive health assessment, but it should not be used in isolation. Evidence level: human-observational (moderate). Caveat: hsCRP is not diagnostic for menopause-related conditions; always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.