CRP is an acute phase reactant that is 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 can function as an opsonin, enhancing phagocytosis with certain infections.
