Can elevated C-reactive protein levels indicate cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

I had undergone a few test reports for erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein. The reports suggested a very high sedimentation rate and elevated C-reactive protein levels. Why so? I am also worried of having a cancer.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query and understood your concern.

I went through your reports (the attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C-reactive protein) are nonspecific tests. They can rise in just a viral infection. Raised ESR and CRP do not lead to the diagnosis of cancer. I suggest you might be having some autoimmune disorder. I would suggest you get a biopsy of your erythematous spots. I also suggest you repeat ESR and CRP after three weeks.

I hope this has helped you.

Thanks and regards.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

As I suggested, high CRP and ESR are nonspecific tests. You can even get them raised in the common cold. The answer to your specific queries are,

1. Yes, as the diagnosis in itself says "reaction," so CRP and ESR are markers of inflammatory reaction. Your values are not very high, so we can get these values in a lichenoid reaction.

2. Following any viral infection, CRP and ESR may remain elevated for months.

3. These are nonspecific tests and can be raised in cancer too. But there has to be a reason to say it could be cancer.

I, therefore, suggest you rule out basic diseases first before jumping to big names like cancer.

I hope this has helped you.

Thanks and regards.