Is a C-reactive protein level over 500 very serious?
Nov 18, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
A C-reactive protein (CRP) level exceeding 500 mg/L is not serious if caused by physiological factors. However, inflammatory conditions such as pediatric pneumonia or pediatric arteritis, as well as malignant diseases like lung cancer and gastric cancer, may all lead to elevated CRP levels. Therefore, if a CRP level over 500 mg/L is due to an underlying disease, it is generally considered to be quite serious.
C-reactive protein (CRP) levels exceeding 500 are generally correctly expressed as CRP levels above 500 mg/L. If this elevation is due to physiological causes, it may not be serious; however, if caused by an underlying disease, it could be serious.
1. Not serious
A CRP level above 500 mg/L may not be concerning if it results from short-term intense physical exercise or occurs during pregnancy. If the patient does not exhibit any symptoms of illness and other bodily indicators remain within normal ranges, this is typically considered a normal physiological response and is usually not serious, so there is no need for excessive worry.
2. Serious
CRP plays a role in clearing invading pathogens, so its levels often rise significantly when the body experiences infection or tissue damage. Inflammatory conditions such as pediatric pneumonia or pediatric arteritis, as well as malignant diseases like lung cancer and gastric cancer, can all lead to elevated CRP levels. Therefore, if a CRP level above 500 mg/L is caused by an underlying disease, it is generally considered serious. It may cause significant discomfort and negatively impact health, warranting prompt medical evaluation and treatment.
