C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase protein synthesized in the liver. Its rate of synthesis increases within hours of acute injury or the onset of inflammation and may reach as high as 20 times the normal levels. Arapid fall of CRP indicates recovery. The degree of elevation of CRPlevel directly reflects the mass or activity of inflamed tissue. And its ability to fall to normal levels on resolution of the condition renders quantified CRP values to be a good indicator to allow rapid selection of appropriate antiinflammatory therapy in several rheumatic diseases, which are, clinically difficult to assess.
