C-reactive protein: clinical applications and proposals for a rational use

Rev Assoc Med Bras (1992). 2013 Jan-Feb;59(1):85-92.
[Article in English, Portuguese]

Abstract

C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase protein whose requests have been growing exponentially in several countries, including Brazil. In this study, the use of CRP in several clinical situations was reviewed by a group of physicians comprised by specialists in internal medicine, medical emergencies, intensive care, screening, and laboratory medicine, aiming to analyze the applicable literature and to propose guidelines for a more rational use of this laboratory test. The result was the creation of flowcharts guiding CRP request, adjusted to four different healthcare environments, namely, intensive care units, emergency room, wards, and outpatient clinics. These flowcharts, as well as a more detailed discussion on several clinical recommendations for the test, are presented in this study.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms*
  • Biomarkers / analysis
  • C-Reactive Protein / analysis*
  • Decision Making / physiology*
  • Delivery of Health Care / classification*
  • Humans

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • C-Reactive Protein