Elevated blood values, measures
February 24, 2010 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Olaf Stephan
Hello,
since at least 2008, I have had an elevated CRP value (between 7 and 9), which has now been confirmed. Furthermore, EPCHG (whatever that is) of 22.6, also elevated.
I have recently moved and had the values checked by a new doctor. He said yesterday that it is not an autoimmune disease, but could be a oncological disease and comprehensive examinations such as gastroscopy, colonoscopy, and X-ray with contrast agents would be necessary. Some of the examinations are scheduled to take place tomorrow.
I would be interested in a second opinion on whether all of this is really necessary. Thank you!
Dear Inquirer,
Unfortunately, the information you provided is so limited that it is almost impossible to give you a specific answer. To begin with, I also do not know what EPCHG refers to as a lab value.
CRP is a protein produced in the human body that is non-specifically elevated in concentration during any type of inflammation, but does not necessarily indicate a tumor condition. Since your CRP has been measured as elevated multiple times for two years, it is also worth considering a chronic inflammation, such as a rheumatic disease, a chronic urinary tract infection, a chronic sinus infection, or a chronic bowel disease, etc. Unfortunately, without knowledge of your specific symptoms, age, and gender, I cannot provide a more precise diagnosis. A tumor condition would be at the bottom of the list of possible diagnoses given the variety of potential causes. It is also very unusual for a tumor to exist for such a long period (two years) without causing serious complications or symptoms.
Some of the tests you mentioned are invasive (e.g. endoscopy or contrast X-ray), so there is always a certain risk of complications. Unfortunately, due to lack of information, I cannot comment on the necessity of the planned tests, which you should discuss with your treating physician. As I mentioned, I would focus on investigating for inflammation during the diagnostic process, using various radiological and endoscopic procedures as indicated. I hope I was able to provide some assistance given the circumstances.
Sincerely, O. Stephan
