Quick reference
A positive result confirms the active process and justifies the search for a source; For dynamics and precise decisions (antibiotic? Hospitalization?), quantitative CRP is used (next page) - the numbers are comparable between visits. Economical primary test.
When is it appointed?
- fever - severity and nature of inflammation;
- suspicion of sepsis - procalcitonin, blood culture;
- joint pain - rheumatological screening;
- sore throats and their complications - ASLO;
- allergy - general IgE.
Inflammation thermometer
Markers rank the alarm: CRP increases with any significant inflammation (bacterial gives higher numbers), procalcitonin is specific for severe bacterial infections and sepsis - it also solves the issue of antibiotics, IL-6 reacts first in resuscitation scenarios, blood culture finds the causative agent of bacteremia. Rheumatological block (RF, ASLO) and IgE close articular and allergic routes. The right marker at the right time saves time and antibiotics.
