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What Causes Elevated ESR And CRP Levels In Blood?

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Posted on Wed, 5 Aug 2015
Question: I have an elevated CRP reading of 41 and a slightly raised ESR reading. I had bunion surgery and two toes straightened in February and although I have mad a good recovery my foot still swells if I am standing for long periods or wearing shoes which do not offer full support. I had a low CRP reading in my last blood test
in Sep 14. I am very worried about these results and wonder whether the swelling could cause the raised results.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Suresh Heijebu (3 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Bunion surgery sequel is related to elevated ESR and CRP.

Detailed Answer:
Hi Mam,

I understand your concern.

Elevated ESR in your case is directly related to swelling of the feet.

Residual infection or new inflammation will lead to elevation of both ESR and CRP,since these are considered as acute phase reactant proteins.

Its important that you get an X ray of the operated toes to rule out any soft tissue infection.

Control of this infection or inflammation will eventually control ESR and CRP levels.

Post your further queries if any.
Thank you.



Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Suresh Heijebu (54 minutes later)
Thank you for the reply. I saw my foot consultant today and he sent me for an X ray and arepeat CRP blood test and other blood tests.
He said that there was no sign of infection as I did not have any significant pain and there was no red XXXXXXX and everything looked good.
He did say that there was some warmth in
the foot and there is still some swelling although this is slowly reducing.
Also the operated foot looks a slightly darker colour at times. I am really hoping that these symptoms are the reasons for the elevated levels. What do you think and how can I reduce this inflammation as quickly as possible.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Suresh Heijebu (36 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Even active Osteoarthritis can cause elevated ESR.

Detailed Answer:
Hi Mam,

I understand your concern.

Yes the elevated ESR and CRP is probably related to foot swelling and associated inflammation.

Even though there is no active inflammation currently,ESR can still remain elevated .

Elevated ESR in your case can also be related to active Osteoarthritis.

In order to minimize the swelling I advise Tab Chymerol Forte one tab thrice a day for 5 days under expert supervision.

You need not worry about this elevated ESR and concern for knee surgery,since this factor is not significant enough to stop you from having surgery.

Elevated ESR is only of prognostic significance but not diagnostic .

Repeat complete blood counts along with ESR 2 week later.

Thank you.


Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Suresh Heijebu

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2010

Answered : 3646 Questions

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What Causes Elevated ESR And CRP Levels In Blood?

Brief Answer: Bunion surgery sequel is related to elevated ESR and CRP. Detailed Answer: Hi Mam, I understand your concern. Elevated ESR in your case is directly related to swelling of the feet. Residual infection or new inflammation will lead to elevation of both ESR and CRP,since these are considered as acute phase reactant proteins. Its important that you get an X ray of the operated toes to rule out any soft tissue infection. Control of this infection or inflammation will eventually control ESR and CRP levels. Post your further queries if any. Thank you.