C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) and Homocysteine Most Popular

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Homocysteine, Homocysteine Cardiovascular

HOMOCYSTEINE,

Also known as: C-Reactive Protein, Cardio CRP, Cardio hs-CRP, CRP, High Sensitivity CRP, High-sensitivity C-reactive Protein, High-sensitivity CRP, Highly Sensitive CRP, hsCRP, Ultra-sensitive CRP

Hs Crp

A high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) test may be used by itself, in combination with other cardiac risk markers, or in combination with a lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) test that evaluates vascular inflammation. The hs-CRP test accurately detects low concentrations of C-reactive protein to help predict a healthy person's risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). High-sensitivity CRP is promoted by some as a test for determining a person's risk level for CVD, heart attacks, and strokes. The current thinking is that hs-CRP can play a role in the evaluation process before a person develops one of these health problems.
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The C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) and Homocysteine panel contains 2 tests with 2 biomarkers.

Brief Description: The C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) and Homocysteine Panel is a combination of two diagnostic tests that assess inflammation and potential risk for cardiovascular disease. While both markers are associated with heart health, they offer insights into different underlying mechanisms and pathways. Their combined assessment provides a broader perspective on an individual's cardiovascular health.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When and Why the C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) and Homocysteine Panel May Be Ordered

The C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) and Homocysteine Panel may be ordered when:

  1. Assessing Cardiovascular Risk: In individuals with intermediate risk factors to determine the need for more aggressive treatment or preventive strategies.

  2. Monitoring Treatment: Especially for those on specific medications or interventions aiming to reduce inflammation or homocysteine levels.

  3. Unexplained Symptoms: Such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or other potential cardiovascular symptoms without a clear cause.

What the C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) and Homocysteine Panel Checks For

  • High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP): This test measures the amount of CRP in the blood using a high-sensitivity method, which can detect lower concentrations of the protein. CRP is a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation. The "high-sensitivity" version of this test can detect minor inflammation, making it valuable in assessing heart disease risk.

  • Homocysteine: Homocysteine is an amino acid, a building block of proteins. Elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood can irritate blood vessels, leading to plaque formation and increasing the risk of blockages (atherosclerosis).

Conditions or Diseases the C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) and Homocysteine Panel Can Check For

  • Cardiovascular Disease: Elevated hs-CRP levels indicate inflammation, which is associated with a higher risk of atherosclerosis and heart attacks. Likewise, elevated homocysteine levels are linked with an increased risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease.

  • Autoimmune or Chronic Inflammatory Disorders: Elevated hs-CRP can be indicative of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or vasculitis.

  • Vitamin Deficiency: Elevated homocysteine levels can indicate deficiencies in vitamins B6, B12, or folic acid, as these vitamins help process homocysteine in the body.

The C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) and Homocysteine Panel provides valuable insights into inflammatory status and cardiovascular health. Elevated levels of either biomarker necessitate further investigation and potentially more aggressive preventive or therapeutic strategies to reduce heart disease risk.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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