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C-Reactive Protein Paradox

Meaning

The C-Reactive Protein Paradox refers to the complex clinical phenomenon where, in certain chronic inflammatory conditions like advanced heart failure, a low or decreasing C-reactive protein level is paradoxically associated with a poor prognosis. This observation contradicts the general rule that high CRP levels, indicative of systemic inflammation, predict adverse cardiovascular events. The paradox highlights the nuanced and context-dependent nature of CRP’s role, suggesting that its presence or absence may signify different underlying biological processes in various disease states.