CRP (C-reactive protein) is a non-specific inflammatory marker produced by the liver. Elevated CRP (>5 mg/L) can indicate acute or chronic inflammation, infection, or tissue damage. Mild elevations (3–10 mg/L) are often non-specific and may be due to lifestyle factors like smoking, obesity, or minor infections. You should see a doctor if CRP exceeds 10 mg/L, especially when combined with symptoms such as fever, pain, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss. Values above 50 mg/L raise suspicion of serious bacterial infection or systemic inflammation. Importantly, CRP alone is not diagnostic; it must be interpreted in clinical context. Persistent elevation without clear cause warrants further investigation. In chronic conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), CRP is used for monitoring disease activity. A normal CRP does not rule out disease. Evidence is based on clinical practice and extensive research, but specificity is limited.
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