C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase reactant synthesized in the liver. Serum CRP levels increase following a variety of pro-inflammatory events, such as infection, tissue necrosis, trauma, surgery, and malignancy. CRP levels can increase quickly and dramatically (often 100-fold) during inflammation. CRP can activate complement, bind Fc receptors, and function as an opsonin, enhancing phagocytosis with certain infections.
