Is the C-reactive protein high in rheumatoid arthritis?

Written by Liu Li Ning
Rheumatology
Updated on May 20, 2025
00:00
00:00

Rheumatoid arthritis, during the acute flare-up phase, can show an increase in C-reactive protein (CRP). After the condition has eased, there can be a significant decrease in CRP, which can initially be used to judge the recovery of the condition.

The onset of rheumatoid arthritis is somewhat associated with infection by Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci. Clinically, it primarily presents as migratory pain in the large joints of the limbs and generally does not cause joint deformities; this is an important marker for differentiating it from rheumatoid arthritis.

In the acute phase of rheumatoid arthritis, treatment is mainly symptomatic, predominantly using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as etoricoxib or diclofenac sodium sustained-release capsules to alleviate symptoms.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Guan Yu Hua
Orthopedic Surgery
1min 28sec home-news-image

Difference between arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

Arthritis is typically osteoarthritis, a chronic inflammation characterized primarily by degenerative changes in joint cartilage, followed by bone proliferation, making it a chronic disease. Early pathological changes include alterations in joint cartilage, such as subchondral bone extrusion, followed by changes in the muscles surrounding the periosteum and joint capsule. Early radiographic examinations can provide a definitive diagnosis. Its symptoms primarily manifest as pain. For rheumatoid arthritis, it generally presents as morning stiffness and joint swelling and pain more severe than in the surrounding area, which can essentially confirm a diagnosis. It usually affects large joints such as the knee, shoulder, or wrist joints, typically presenting as migratory pain. A definitive diagnosis can usually be made by testing for rheumatoid factor, with an anti-O level exceeding 500 units. Additionally, there may be a slight increase in white blood cells, accelerated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and elevated C-reactive protein. Examination of the synovial fluid shows increased white blood cells and neutrophils. In such cases, using anti-rheumatic drugs might suffice, but it’s also crucial to ensure rest and local heat application. These two types of arthritis fundamentally differ.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Li Ning
Rheumatology
47sec home-news-image

Does rheumatoid arthritis have anything to do with drinking alcohol?

Rheumatoid arthritis is not causally related to alcohol consumption. There is a certain correlation between rheumatoid arthritis and Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus infection. Clinically, it is mainly manifested as joint pain or arthritis, primarily affecting major joints. Symptoms can include redness, swelling, heat, and pain in the joints, which are migratory, and generally do not leave joint deformities. During the acute phase of rheumatoid arthritis, it is important to immobilize the joints. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as etoricoxib or diclofenac sodium sustained-release capsules, can be used to relieve symptoms. If accompanied by myocarditis, glucocorticoids can also be applied in combination therapy.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
54sec home-news-image

Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnostic Criteria

The diagnostic criteria for rheumatoid arthritis include, first, the presence of swelling and pain in multiple joints, especially characterized and significant in the smaller joints. Second, serological tests show elevated levels of antibodies, commonly rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies. If both are elevated, it is most meaningful. Third, the duration of joint swelling and pain should be more than six weeks. Fourth, we must also check some inflammatory markers for joints, such as elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein. If these markers are elevated, and the patient has swelling and pain in multiple joints, then we can consider a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
50sec home-news-image

Can rheumatoid arthritis be cured?

Rheumatoid arthritis is difficult to completely cure without medication, as it is a chronic inflammatory disease of the immune system that requires lifelong medication. The main treatment plans include the following three categories: The first category is anti-inflammatory and analgesic, which includes non-steroidal analgesics and low-dose corticosteroids. The second category, which is also the most important treatment, involves the use of immunosuppressants. Commonly used immunosuppressants include methotrexate and leflunomide. If the patient does not respond well to anti-inflammatory analgesics and immunosuppressants, treatment with biological agents may also be considered. (Medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
36sec home-news-image

Will rheumatoid arthritis RF be high?

Patients with rheumatic arthritis generally do not have elevated rheumatoid factor levels, but there may also be a slight, minor increase. Typically, high titers of positive rheumatoid factors are not present. If a patient with rheumatic arthritis has a significant increase in rheumatoid factor, that is, more than three times the normal value, we need to reconsider the diagnosis of rheumatic arthritis. At this point, further tests are required to refine the diagnosis, including ASO (anti-streptolysin O), ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), CRP (C-reactive protein), anti-CCP antibody, and anti-AK antibody, to better determine whether the condition is rheumatic arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.