CRP RESULRS,

[Joanmc]

Hi , I am attending my 1st Rheumatologist apt next week. My GP diagnosed PMR in Dec and commenced me on Prednisol 15 mg. Relief was nearly instant. My CPR at diagnoisis was 15with GP . It’s down to 3 now. I am on 12.5 mgs prednisolone now. Is this reduction in CRP indication that I have PMR IR NOT? THANKS

[SheffieldJane]

I think that your positive response to Prednisalone and the lowering of the inflammatory markers in your blood are a very strong indication that your PMR diagnosis is correct. Although sometimes lowered CRP can lead some doctors down the wrong path, one would expect the levels to be low when steroid treatment is given, generally. I hope your Rheumatologist is well versed in PMR/GCA. It helps enormously and can be hit and miss.

[Joanmc in reply to SheffieldJane]

thanks for your reply.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

The CRP is an indicator there is inflammation somewhere in your body but not what it is specifically or how much. Your quick response to the pred and the falling CRP are supporting evidence that the symptoms the doctor decided were possibly PMR are most likely to be that. The pred is managing the inflammation - so the liver isn't making the increased amount in response to that. That's why it is falling, not because the PMR has gone away.

[Joanmc in reply to PMRpro]

Thanks for your reply.

[SnazzyD]

I would hope the CRP would fall if your medication is on top of the inflammation caused by PMR. It is not the cure, that is up to your body in good time.

[Joanmc]

Thanks for reply.