CRP and the disposal of dying cells: consequences for systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis

Autoimmunity. 2007 Jun;40(4):295-8. doi: 10.1080/08916930701358925.

Abstract

C reactive protein (CRP) levels directly correlate with the disease activity of many inflammatory diseases, e.g. sepsis, infection, and various autoimmunopathies such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In contrast, insufficient CRP levels are implicated in the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This article reports on the level-depended effects of CRP in various diseases. In detail we show that increased and decreased levels of CRP, as demonstrated in patients with RA and SLE, respectively can contribute to disease progression.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / blood
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / immunology*
  • C-Reactive Protein / immunology*
  • C-Reactive Protein / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / blood
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / immunology*
  • Sepsis

Substances

  • C-Reactive Protein