C-reactive protein and statins for primary prevention of coronary heart disease

A slight increase in the serum concentration of C-reactive protein (CRP) has been associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease. The recently published and widely publicized results of the JUPITER study have confirmed the role of CRP as risk biomarker, suggesting the use of the protein determination as a means to modulate the primary prevention treatment. As a result, it is anticipated that many apparently healthy persons will ask for the CRP measurement in order to test their risk and, in case, start a statin therapy, with a consequent great increase in CRP testing. In this context clinical laboratories need to stay on top of the issues related to this biomarker, playing a key role in ensuring the test is ordered and employed correctly by focusing on its advantages and limitations.