Inflammation panel, LabCorp

The Inflammation Panel includes:

The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) blood test (also called sedimentation rate/sed rate) is the rate that red blood cells (RBCs) settle in a period of one hour. The more red blood cells that settle in one hour (measured in mm/h), the higher the rate. The ESR blood test has been used for years to detect diseases associated with inflammation, such as an infection; an autoimmune disease; heart disease or cancer; ESR is also increased in pregnancy or with rheumatoid arthritis. 

The C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test measures for a specific type of protein, C-Reactive Protein, which can act as a predictor for cardiovascular disease. Because CRP levels can elevate for other reasons like inflammation and infections, the test is often ordered in conjunction with other predictive cardiovascular tests.

Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) is an enzyme found mainly in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscle. It is tested by taking a blood sample. High CPK can indicate muscle destruction, heart attacks, central nervous system issues, and others. Long-term exposure of high CPK can load up the kidneys and may cause muscle loss and weakness. A CPK blood test is usually not included in standard lab work, unless it's asked for. In some instances, there are no noticeable symptoms when CPK is elevated, but the majority of the time body aches and soreness occurs. To ensure elevated CPK is not induced by heavy exercise, do not exercise for 5 days and have another test completed after that.

The Ferritin Test identifies the amount of Ferritin in the blood. Ferritin is a protein containing iron, and if your Ferritin levels are lower than average, this can indicate an iron deficiency and in turn anemia. By contrast, elevated Ferritin can help identify conditions like inflammation, thyroid disease, and liver disease, among others.

The Homocysteine Plasma Test measures the amount of Homocysteine in the blood to identify potential risk for heart and arterial disease. Homocysteine is a molecule created when the amino acid Methionine is broken down within the body. While it is normal to have some Homocysteine in the blood, elevated levels (called hyperhomocysteinemia) can indicate potential heart and arterial disease. Homocysteine can irritate the blood vessels and cause an increased risk of hardening arteries, which potentially leads to heart attack, stroke, and blood clots in the long-term.

Lactic Acid Dehydrogenase (LDH) -Elevated serum levels of LDH have been observed in a variety of disease states. The highest levels are seen in patients with megaloblastic anemia, disseminated carcinoma, and shock. Moderate increases occur in muscular disorders, renal diseases, and cirrhosis. Mild increases in LDH activity have been reported in cases of myocardial or pulmonary infarction, leukemia, hemolytic anemia, and nonviral hepatitis.