The British Journal of Cancer published a study that evaluated the impact of a particular protein (C-reactive protein) in the blood of people who received surgery for colorectal cancer that had metastasized to the liver.
In general, elevated C-reactive protein levels indicate inflammation. The researchers found that people who had elevated levels of the protein (more than 10 mg l -1) on the day before surgery, didn't fare as well as patients with lower levels of the protein. However, they didn't try to figure out why the levels were elevated. This is an important limitation of the study since a variety of conditions can elevate C-reactive protein levels, including heart disease and infection.
About C-Reactive Protein Tests
Unlike the tests featured in many studies, blood tests that determine C-reactive protein levels are currently available to the public for less than $100. However, their value as a prognostic marker for colon cancer prognosis isn't widely accepted by the medical community.
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Source: Wong, V. and Malik, H. "C-reactive Protein as a Predictor of Prognosis Following Curative Resection for Colorectal Liver Metastases." British Journal of Cancer 96 (2007): 222-225. 1 Feb. 2007.
