ESR & CRP in Rheumatology
ESR & CRP in Rheumatology
Markers of inflammation, not the disease itself.
What are Acute Phase Reactants?
When the body faces inflammation or infection, the liver produces certain proteins called acute phase reactants.
Two of the most commonly used tests in rheumatology are:
ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)
- Measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube.
- A faster rate = more inflammation in the body.
- Raised in infections, autoimmune diseases (like RA, SLE), cancers, and even in normal aging.
- Limitations: Slow to change, can be influenced by anemia, pregnancy, and other factors.
CRP (C-Reactive Protein)
- Directly measures a protein made by the liver in response to inflammation.
- Rises quickly in acute inflammation and falls rapidly once inflammation settles.
- Helpful for monitoring flares and treatment response in conditions like RA, vasculitis, infections.
- More specific and dynamic compared to ESR.
Why Are These Tests Important?
- Help detect and monitor inflammation
- Guide doctors in disease activity assessment
- Support diagnosis when combined with clinical findings and other tests
Key Takeaway
- ESR & CRP are not diseases — they are indicators.
- A raised result doesn’t automatically mean arthritis or infection.
- Always interpreted in context with symptoms, examination, and other investigations.
If you have persistent joint pain, swelling, fever, or unexplained inflammation, consult a rheumatologist for proper evaluation.
Early and accurate assessment leads to better management.