CRP levels “ off the scale “

[Geordieland]

Hi ! Have managed to reduce to 5mgs of Prednisolone from 20mgs prescribed March 2020 . Had a recent blood test done and hip and lower back X-ray because of increased pain in both . Both X-rays showed deterioration but my concern is that my CRP levels were above 340 !! Apparently the normal range is up to 20 ? I had an appointment with a rheumatologist in December but that has now been cancelled - advice please as to what I should be doing about these very high levels !! I have osteoporosis , PMR , scoliosis and RA ( with a bit of bursitis in my hip ) such a lucky girl 😂

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

The only thing, is back to GP and get them to do any other tests they think might help to resolve what is causing such high levels, maybe testing CRP first, to make it sure it wasn't a one-off blip. so don't panic, but get it checked again. It can be caused by many things, including your other issues. What where your level at diagnosis?

Have a look at this post -

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

[Geordieland in reply to DorsetLady]

Hi 😊 will need to get the previous results from my GP - this was a locum who actually offered to print off my results for me 👍 but will defo pursue it 👍👍

[SheffieldJane]

As you have probably heard PMRPro explain, many things can raise our CRP levels quite considerably even the common cold can make them skyrocket and the “common” colds we have around currently are far from ordinary. Any kind of infection or inflammation will see them rise so this is not an indicator of trouble for our central diseases necessarily. Is your Rheumatology team aware of your current state of health? They may reconsider their priorities for appointments. Failing that your GP should be able to advise you. Commiserations, I hope you can access the help you need, quickly.

[Geordieland in reply to SheffieldJane]

Thank you ! I’ve only had 1 previous appt with the rheumatology team so I don’t feel connected to them at all ☹️ Am considering paying a one off consultation privately just to get a handle on things .

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to Geordieland]

Might be worth but you are quite likely to seem same consultant if you go locally….but why not give your GP a chance - if you can get an appointment that is! Provided you don’t have complex issues, they are quite capable of treating PMR. Don’t always require a specialist.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Geordieland]

Are you really living in Geordieland? Who/which hospital are you under?

[Geordieland in reply to PMRpro]

😂 no - born in Newcastle and lived in the northeast until I was 11 then moved to Ilkley - now live in the southeast but love my roots 😊

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Geordieland]

Makes a difference to what I would suggest! Gateshead QE hospital rules

[Geordieland in reply to PMRpro]

As far as I’m concerned the” North East “ rules 😂 Have managed to arrange a chat with a GP on the phone so any suggested questions would be gratefully received 😊

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Geordieland]

Maybe a new post asking for some guidance so everyone sees it?????

[Geordieland in reply to PMRpro]

Will give it a go 👍 thanks

[phebamom in reply to SheffieldJane]

True! I have PMR/GCA. I also have a blood condition called MGUS. I carry a protein in my blood. I see an oncologist for this condition. The protein in my blood makes it difficult to assess my SED rate. The MGUS does not elevate my SED, but the protein in my blood makes it difficult for the blood to settle in the test tube, making my SED look higher than it really is. My rheumatologist goes more on how I say I am feeling, than my blood work.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

You need it to be checked in a couple of weeks to be sure it isn't a lab error - but as SJ has explained, all sorts of things raise it and if you have bursitis it could be that or the RA not being adequately controlled.

Your GP needs to get their thinking cap on.

[Geordieland in reply to PMRpro]

Will be ringing my GP for a call back ( no face to face available ) and make sure I have a list of questions !