CRP test in pregnancy – norms, indications, course

CRP is a C-reactive protein produced in the liver and fat cells. It belongs to the so-called. acute phase proteins, whose concentration in the body significantly increases or decreases when inflammation occurs. CRP is involved in the immune response by modulating the function of monocytes and granulocytes. Its level is an important indicator when infection is suspected.

Why is a CRP test done in pregnancy?

A referral for a CRP test in pregnancy is given to a woman whose doctor suspects an infection, for example, on the basis of presenting symptoms or abnormal parameters of other laboratory tests. In addition, by determining CRP levels, conditions that threaten the developing fetus can be detected and treated early.

Indications for CRP testing in pregnancy are:

• checking general health,
• Elevated body temperature or fever,
• Genitourinary complaints,
• anemia,
• weight loss,
• liver dysfunction,
• autoimmune diseases,
• Premature departure of fetal waters.

It is worth remembering that based on the level of CRP in pregnancy, it is only possible to determine (or not) the presence of inflammation, but it is not possible to determine its cause or location.

Read also: Lymphocytes in pregnancy – what is the norm? What when they are downgraded?

What does the CRP test look like in pregnancy?

Determination of CRP levels is a very simple laboratory test. The woman should report to the laboratory of her choice, preferably in the morning. The nurse draws a few milliliters of blood from the elbow vein and then submits the secured sample for analysis. CRP testing in pregnancy does not have to be done on an empty stomach. It is advisable for a woman to drink a glass of water a few minutes before going in for a blood draw.

Intense exercise should be avoided before a CRP test in pregnancy, as it can affect the test result. Before entering the laboratory, it is a good idea to sit down and relax for a while.

The result of a CRP test in pregnancy is available the same day or the next business day (depending on the laboratory). It should always be shown to the doctor who ordered the test, as only a specialist can determine further management depending on the level of CRP and the symptoms present.

CRP norms in pregnancy

Normal CRP levels in a healthy person are considered to be below 5 mg/dL, but pregnant women may have slightly higher levels of the protein. The norm for CRP in pregnancy is values below 10 mg/dL. A result above this value is an indication for further diagnostics.

What does elevated CRP in pregnancy mean?

Elevated CRP protein in pregnancy means that there is inflammation going on in the body. Values that do not exceed 40 mg/dL indicate a viral infection or mild bacterial infection. A higher CRP value in pregnancy indicates more serious infections, usually caused by streptococci or staphylococci. The higher the protein concentration, the more severe the condition.

Often, CRP levels reaching triple digits indicate an ongoing cancerous process in the body. Cancer in pregnancy is not common, but it is worth being aware that it is possible. Some women are found to have physiologically elevated CRP during the third trimester of pregnancy. However, its value does not exceed 40 mg/L.

Elevated C-reactive protein requires the introduction of appropriate treatment. The type of therapy is decided by the doctor after additional diagnostic tests. The effects of high CRP in pregnancy can be life-threatening for the fetus. A pending condition in the body can contribute to an intrauterine infection, resulting in a miscarriage or premature birth.

See also: Gestosis and its course and causes