A patient with an exacerbation of Crohn's disease is started on corticosteroids.Which laboratory result should the nurse monitor for early indications that the treatment is working?
A)C-reactive protein (CRP)
B)Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
C)Immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE)
D)Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase reactant that is elevated during inflammation. Monitoring CRP levels can help indicate the effectiveness of corticosteroid treatment for an exacerbation of Crohn's disease. A decrease in CRP levels would indicate a decrease in inflammation and improvement in the patient's condition. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is also an indicator of inflammation, but it is less specific and takes longer to decrease than CRP levels. Immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) are not relevant indicators for the effectiveness of corticosteroid treatment for Crohn's disease.

A Patient with an Exacerbation of Crohn's Disease Is Started