Role of C-reactive protein in effective utilization of emergent MRI for spinal infections

ConclusionAbnormal CRP, although extremely sensitive, lacks specificity in predicting a positive MRI for spinal infection unless highly elevated. However, a normal CRP (absent recent antibiotic or surgery) makes spinal infection unlikely, and its routine use as a screening test can help reducing utilization of emergent MRI for this purpose.
Source: Emergency Radiology - Category: Emergency Medicine Source Type: research