Description
StatShell Information
Collection Instructions
Sample Lab Report
Unit: 1 Each
Contents: 1 Collection Kit (Instructions, Blood Collection Cartridge, Lab Form, Lab Processing, Results Reporting)
Determinations: High sensitivity C-reactive Protein (hs-CRP)
Storage Requirements: 59° – 86° F
C – reactive protein (CRP) serves an important function in innate immunity as an early defense system against infection. CRP is produced by the liver in response to a wide range of acute and chronic inflammatory conditions. It binds to phosphocholine found on the surface of dead or dying cells to enhance phagocytosis and to aid in the clearance of necrotic and apoptotic cells. Though it is not condition-specific, an elevated CRP level is a significant indicator of health complications which necessitate medical attention.
Several factors can cause an increase in CRP including infection, tissue trauma, malignancies, inflammatory diseases (various types of arthritis), autoimmune diseases, and arterial inflammation and damage (symptoms of cardiovascular disease). CRP , specifically high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), is considered an important indicator of heart disease by the American Heart Association. Patients with high CRP concentrations are found to have increased risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and severe peripheral vascular disease.
Healthy men and women with normal cholesterol levels can still be at risk for heart attack if they have elevated levels of hs-CRP. The hs-CRP test is an important tool for assessment of overall cardiac health. Testing is recommended for patients with high risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Risk factors for heart disease:
- Obesity
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Previous heart attack or stroke
- Family history of cardiovascular disease
- Elevated Total Cholesterol and LDL levels
- Low HDL levels
- Post-menopausal women
The hs-CRP Test provides the same results that can be obtained from your local medical laboratory without the high cost and inconvenience of doctor’s appointments, laboratory fees, and the often painful and unnecessary procedure of direct venous or arterial blood draw. This test can be conveniently performed at home in less than ten minutes, and quantitative results can be obtained in approximately the same time as those routinely ordered through a physician. It is recommended that a patient wait at least 2 weeks after an acute or chronic inflammatory event (such as a cold, infection, or tissue trauma) to measure hs-CRP.
Complete instructions are enclosed, and sample collection is quite easy and virtually painless. A single finger nick using the enclosed lancet is all that is required to obtain the sample needed. Simply deposit the drops of blood on the collection card and wait 30 minutes for it to dry. Then place the card in the enclosed postage paid return envelope along with your completed Laboratory Requisition Form, and drop in the nearest US mailbox.
After your sample has been analyzed at the Laboratory, you will receive a report by mail that clearly indicate if the results are normal or if a follow up with a health care provider is needed. Early detection of irregularities greatly increases your chances for successful treatment.
Expect to receive your quantitative test results within one week from the time your test has been received by the Laboratory.
High-Sensitivity C-reactive Protein (hs-CRP) Levels
Low Risk – Less than 1.0 mg/L
Moderate Risk – 1.0 to 3.0 mg/L
High Risk – More than 3.0 mg/L
Note: Women using Intrauterine devices (IUD), those who are pregnant, and post-menopausal women on hormone replacement therapy will usually have a higher-than-normal CRP level.
hs-CRP Collection Kit (Mail-In) Includes:
Instructions
Blood Collection Card
Lab Form
Lab Processing
Results Reporting
