C-reactive protein levels in the serum of asthmatic patients

Background: Asthma is a chronic airway inflammatory disease caused by immune cells such as T lymphocytes and eosinophils. Recently, highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) assays have become available for detecting small changes in CRP levels within the reference range, allowing for the evaluation of clinical inflammation. Objective: To investigate the relationship between hs-CRP levels and bronchial asthma. Methods: We collected blood samples from 109 patients with bronchial asthma, with or without attacks, and measured serum eosinophil cationic protein levels, pulmonary function, and serum CRP levels using an hs-CRP assay. Results: Mean serum hs-CRP levels were significantly higher in patients without attacks (0.473 mg/L) and with attacks (0.908 mg/L) (P < .001 for both) than in controls (0.262 mg/L). Serum hs-CRP levels were inversely correlated with forced expiratory volume in I second/forced vital capacity in asthmatic patients (r = -0.4915; P < .01). Conclusion: Serum hs-CRP levels may be related to the state of asthma exacerbation and allergic inflammation.