Update on hs-CRP (high sensitivity C Reactive Protein) The American Heart Association convened a conference to specifically look at markers of inflammation as part of a strategy to identify high-risk patients who need primary prevention. The result was a AHA/CDC Scientific Statement just released in Circulation ( 2003; 107: 499-511).

This full report can be obtained by clicking here.

For the first time there are some guidelines for clinical use of hs-CRP. Although mass screening is not yet recommended, it is recommended that patients at intermediate clinical risk (10-20% risk of coronary heart disease (CCHD) over 10 years) in whom the physician is considering further evaluation (e.g. imaging/exercise testing/ or therapy (e.g. lipid lowering, aspirin, etc. ) should have hs-CRP measured. Also, hs-CRP may be useful in estimating prognosis in patients who need serious drug preventive care, such as those with stable coronary disease or have acute coronary symptoms. A caveat however if there is a result of >10mg/L this should be discarded and retested in two weeks. Persistent high levels suggest a systemic inflammatory process.

Reference Range:

Low Risk ........less than 1 mg/L

Average Risk ... 1.0 to 3.0 mg/L

High Risk ...... greater than 3.0 mg/L

The test is run daily, M-F.

Order using RML#9924 or High Sensi CRP. CPT Code: 86141.

If you have any questions regarding this test please call our Technical Director, Ken Vanden Bosch, at ext. 6932.