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Lab Test
Inflammation Panel: What Your Results Mean
Inflammation markers measure the level of systemic inflammation in your body. Acute inflammation is a healthy immune response to infection or injury. Chronic low-grade inflammation is linked to heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune conditions.
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What It Tests
CRP (C-Reactive Protein), hs-CRP, ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate), ferritin, fibrinogen, and sometimes IL-6 or TNF-alpha.
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Why It's Ordered
Inflammation panels are ordered to detect infection, monitor autoimmune diseases, assess cardiovascular risk, evaluate response to anti-inflammatory treatment, and investigate unexplained symptoms.
Markers in This Test
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CRP and ESR? expand_more
CRP rises and falls much faster than ESR — it responds within hours and normalizes within days. ESR is a slower, less specific marker that remains elevated longer. Both are used together for a complete picture.
Can stress cause elevated inflammation markers? expand_more
Yes — psychological stress activates inflammatory pathways and can raise CRP and ESR. Chronic stress is associated with persistently elevated inflammatory markers.
What diet reduces inflammation? expand_more
The Mediterranean diet — rich in olive oil, fish, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and whole grains — is the most evidence-based anti-inflammatory diet. Reducing sugar, processed foods, and red meat also helps.
Can inflammation markers detect cancer? expand_more
Elevated CRP and ESR can be associated with certain cancers, but they are non-specific — they rise with many conditions. They are not used for cancer diagnosis but may prompt further investigation.
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