Myths vs facts: hsCRP and allergy

Myth: High hsCRP means you have an allergy. Fact: hsCRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) is a non-specific marker of systemic inflammation, elevated in infections, autoimmune diseases, tissue damage, and chronic conditions like obesity. Allergies are primarily IgE-mediated responses to allergens, causing local inflammation. While chronic allergic diseases (e.g., asthma, atopic dermatitis) can raise hsCRP, it is not a diagnostic test for allergy. A normal hsCRP does not rule out allergy, and an elevated level does not confirm it. Diagnosis relies on history, skin prick tests, and specific IgE. hsCRP is mainly used for cardiovascular risk assessment. Evidence is moderate: hsCRP correlates with systemic inflammation, not allergen-specific reactions. Caveat: Consumers should not misinterpret hsCRP as an allergy marker.