New Assay for SPAPLUS analysers: C-Reactive Protein

01 July 2016

The SPA_PLUS Special Proteins assay menu has been expanded to include a new C-Reactive Protein (CRP) assay, designed for the quantitative in vitro determination of CRP concentration in serum and plasma (Table 1).

CRP, is one of a group of proteins called the pentaxins. It can readily bind to damaged cell membranes and microbial polysaccharides, and is involved in the agglutination and precipitation of invasive bacteria. It can also activate complement, resulting in inflammation, opsonisation and phagocytosis of cell debris and bacteria.

CRP is synthesised in the liver and normal serum concentrations are very low (< 10mg/L). Concentrations increase rapidly following inflammation and raised serum levels may be detected within six hours. It is probably the most useful and reliable indicator of the acute phase response, being preferable to the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Moderately elevated serum levels (10-40mg/L) are associated with mild inflammation and viral infections. Higher concentrations (40 to 200mg/L) occur with acute phase inflammation and bacterial infections.

Table 1: New SPA_PLUS CRP assay technical details.

For more information or to order this assay please contact your local TBS office or distributor.