Why Did My Doctor Order a C-Reactive Protein Blood Test?

When I went to see my doctor last week to get some test results, he recommended that I get a C-reactive protein test. This is a protein that our liver produces and it will be higher when the inflammation throughout our body increases. Other test results indicated that my inflammation levels were increased and my doctor indicated that this test was more sensitive.

Why Would My Doctor Order a C-Reactive Protein Test?

This test is not specific and cannot diagnose a specific disease or condition, but it can aid in determining what is happening with inflammation in the body. This generalized test was performed on me because of acute joint pain attacks mostly contained to my hips and shoulders. These joints have been incredibly painful and the pain and stiffness came on suddenly and has lasted consistently over the course of several months.

Testing for rheumatoid arthritis was inconclusive, so this test was the next step.

What Happens if the Test Results are Considered Abnormal?

If the test results come back positive, it means that my inflammation levels are indeed higher than they should be. This could mean a number of things. Some of these may include cancer, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or a number of other conditions.

How Was This Test Performed?

The good thing about this test is that it was just a simple blood test. I am always happy when a test is just a simple blood draw. My doctor sent a nurse in who had a needle, syringe and an airtight vial. She found a good vein and inserted the needle in. She collected an adequate blood sample and placed a cotton ball on the puncture site and taped it on. The entire process took less than two minutes and I felt no pain. Some people may feel the prick of the needle, but in this particular case, I did not even feel that.

Are There Risks Associated with a C-Reactive Protein Test?

It is a blood test, so it is rather safe. However, there is always a risk that you could feel light-headed or faint, an infection, blood building up under your skin or in very uncommon instances, excessive bleeding.

I did have a slight bruise at the puncture site for about two days following the blood draw. It caused no pain and was a very faint bruise.

Resources

Lab Tests Online: C-Reactive Protein