C-reactive protein

/si riˈæktɪv ˈproʊtin/ noun

An acute-phase protein produced by the liver that rises rapidly during inflammation or infection. CRP levels help diagnose and monitor inflammatory conditions and assess cardiovascular risk.

Named in 1930 for its ability to react with (precipitate) the C-polysaccharide of pneumococcus bacteria. The 'C' refers to this specific carbohydrate component, not vitamin C or any other meaning.

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