was ist der crp-wert — can a DNA test help?

CRP (C-reactive protein) is a non-specific inflammatory marker produced by the liver. It rises during acute infections, chronic inflammation, or tissue damage. The high-sensitivity CRP test (hsCRP) is used for cardiovascular risk assessment: values below 1 mg/L indicate low risk, 1–3 mg/L average risk, and above 3 mg/L high risk. However, transient factors like exercise, colds, or stress can temporarily elevate levels. A DNA test can theoretically reveal genetic variants associated with baseline CRP levels (e.g., in the CRP gene itself). However, these effects are small – the explained variance is typically below 5%. GWAS have identified several loci, but clinical predictive power is limited. A DNA test cannot replace a blood measurement. In practice, a single elevated hsCRP should be repeated when rested. Genetic tests may serve as supplementary information, not a diagnosis. The evidence is based on population genetic studies (GWAS), not randomized controlled trials, so the individual benefit is questionable.