FaridabadBy Dr B.C. Gupta, MD · 2026-09-15
Ask the Pathologist - MCQ of the Week. A short question to test how well you know common laboratory tests, with a plain-English explanation from Dr B.C. Gupta, MD (Pathology).
Q. Which blood test rises within hours when there is active inflammation or infection in the body?
- A. C-reactive protein (CRP)
- B. Vitamin D
- C. HbA1c
- D. Serum calcium
Answer: A. C-reactive protein (CRP)
CRP is a protein the liver makes when there is inflammation somewhere in the body. Its level goes up within a few hours of the inflammation starting and comes down again as things settle, which is why doctors use it both to spot inflammation and to watch how an illness is progressing.
ESR is another inflammation marker that is often done at the same time. CRP tends to change faster, while ESR moves more slowly. Neither one says where the inflammation is or what is causing it, so the result is always read with your symptoms and examination.
Vitamin D, HbA1c and serum calcium are useful tests, but none of them measures inflammation. If your doctor has asked for a CRP or an arthritis screen, call the centre to confirm preparation and timing before you visit.
