What does elevated hypersensitive C-reactive protein in urticaria indicate?
In general, elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in patients with urticaria suggests a possible infection in the body. However, an accurate diagnosis requires comprehensive evaluation based on the patient's specific clinical presentation and additional tests such as procalcitonin and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Detailed analysis is as follows:
High-sensitivity C-reactive protein is an inflammatory marker. If hs-CRP levels are elevated in patients with urticaria, it may indicate that the body is undergoing an inflammatory response, which could be related to urticaria itself. Urticaria is an allergic condition, and hs-CRP is a blood protein that increases during inflammation or infection. However, elevated hs-CRP can also result from other conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatic fever, ankylosing spondylitis, malignancies, and autoimmune diseases. If the patient also experiences symptoms such as cold-like illness, chest pain, or chest tightness, viral myocarditis might be suspected. In such cases, viral serological testing should be performed. Once diagnosed, antiviral and anti-inflammatory treatments should be administered under medical supervision, with close monitoring of vital signs.
Therefore, when hs-CRP is elevated, a comprehensive analysis integrating other test results and clinical symptoms is essential to determine the underlying cause.