Elevation of which lab test may indicate inflammatory processes within the body?

The elevation of the C-reactive protein (CRP) lab test may indicate inflammatory processes within the body. CRP is a protein made by the liver and sent into the bloodstream in response to inflammation.

Here are the steps to understand this:

1. Inflammation is a process by which the body's white blood cells and substances they produce protect us from infection with foreign organisms, such as bacteria and viruses.

2. When there is inflammation in the body, the liver starts to produce more CRP and releases it into the blood.

3. A high level of CRP in the blood is a marker of any condition that causes inflammation, from an upper respiratory tract infection to cancer.

4. A CRP test measures the amount of CRP in the blood. It is a general test to check for inflammation in the body. It is not specific, so it can't be used to identify specific diseases or conditions.

5. However, a high level of CRP can indicate a high level of inflammation in the body. Therefore, an elevated CRP level can indicate inflammatory processes within the body.