What Blood Tests Show Inflammation in the Body?

Inflammation is part of the body’s natural defence system. When functioning normally it helps the immune system respond to injury or infection. However, persistent low grade inflammation has become an important focus in preventive medicine. Several blood biomarkers can provide insight into inflammatory activity within the body.

Why Inflammation Matters

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer account for around 90 percent of deaths in Australia.

Many of these conditions involve inflammatory processes.

CRP

C-reactive protein is one of the most commonly used markers for inflammation. CRP is produced by the liver in response to inflammatory signals.

Professor Paul Ridker of Harvard Medical School, who has led major research in this field, explains: “Inflammation plays a fundamental role in the development of atherosclerosis.”

High sensitivity CRP testing is frequently used to assess cardiovascular risk.

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

ESR measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a test tube. Faster sedimentation rates may reflect inflammatory activity.

White Blood Cell Count

White blood cells are part of the immune system. Elevated levels can occur during infection or inflammatory conditions.

Why Context Matters

Inflammation markers should be interpreted alongside other biomarkers such as lipid markers, glucose markers and liver function tests.

Tracking Results Over Time

Inflammation markers can fluctuate during illness or injury, so trends across multiple tests often provide more meaningful insight.

Keeping track of Results

Organising blood test data across time can make it easier to identify patterns in inflammatory markers. Platforms such as Biolume allow individuals to upload and review their blood tests in one place.