O reference value to PCR it's from 8 mg / L (0.8 mg / dL) or less. Values between 1 mg / dL (0.1 mg / dL) and 10 mg / dL (1 mg / dL) may occur in small inflammations such as gingivitis or other small problems and in most cases there is no clinical relevance. Important inflammation usually causes a CRP greater than 10 mg / L (1 mg / dL).
By way of illustration, PCR in viral infections is usually between 1 mg / dL and 4 mg / dL (however, adenovirus, cytomegalovirus, influenza, herpes simplex, measles and mumps infections may have PCR values greater than 10 mg / dL).
In bacterial infections, such as common pneumonia, they are usually above 5 mg / dL in 80% of patients. In cases of severe sepsis, the values may exceed 20 mg / dL.
Serum CRP dosing is recommended at varying time intervals depending on the disease in question because its serum levels reflect the clinical course or response to treatment in various diseases.
PCR values greater than 13 mg / dL after the sixth postoperative day show high sensitivity and specificity in the detection of infection. After extensive burns, the PCR tends to increase, returning progressively to normal values with the cicatrization of the process.
A second peak of PCR occurs in cases of secondary infection and, therefore, its serial dosage has value in monitoring the recovery process.
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High PCR: what can it be?
Low PCR: what can it be?
The interpretation of the results of the examination should be performed by the doctor who requested it, together with the history and clinical examination. For more information, contact your GP.
Learn more at: What is C Reactive Protein?
