A Unifying Biologic Explanation for 'High-Sensitivity' C-Reactive Protein and 'Low-Grade' Inflammation

摘要

Patients with chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Although the mechanisms that underlie this association are unknown, interest has focused on the possible role of C-reactive protein (CRP) (1). Epidemiologic studies show that minor degrees of serum CRP level elevation are present in a high proportion of the population (2), are associated with varied lifestyles and medical conditions (3), and are associated with future risk of atherosclerotic events. In addition, a new, poorly defined term, "low-grade inflammation," has been widely employed, and minor CRP level elevation is regarded as a marker of low-grade inflammation.