Inflammation is the primary cause of high CRP levels in the blood. Therefore, conditions that are associated with inflammation can cause elevated CRP levels.
- Some diseases that can cause high CRP levels include infections, autoimmune disorders, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and inflammatory bowel disease.
- Infections that can cause high CRP levels include bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, such as pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis.
- Autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, can also cause high CRP levels due to chronic inflammation.
- High CRP levels can also be seen in cancer, as the body mounts an inflammatory response against the tumor.