Which of the following tests can indicate inflammation in the body?

The C-reactive protein (CRP) test is specifically designed to measure the level of CRP in the blood, which increases in response to inflammation in the body. When there is inflammation, such as that caused by infection, tissue injury, or chronic inflammatory diseases, the liver produces more CRP. This makes it a useful marker for detecting and monitoring the intensity of inflammation and can assist healthcare providers in diagnosing conditions like autoimmune diseases, infections, and other inflammatory disorders.

While the complete blood count can provide information about various components of the blood, such as red and white blood cells and platelets, it does not specifically measure inflammation. The liver panel assesses liver function and detects liver damage, but it does not directly indicate inflammation elsewhere in the body. The basic metabolic panel evaluates the body’s chemical balance and includes tests for glucose, electrolytes, and kidney function, but it too does not measure inflammation. Therefore, the CRP test stands out as the most specific option for indicating inflammation.