From the Research
In compartment syndrome of a single upper extremity, CRP levels are expected to be normal or only mildly elevated, typically ranging from normal (less than 3 mg/L) to slightly increased (perhaps 10-20 mg/L), as this condition is a localized mechanical issue rather than a systemic inflammatory condition 1, 2. The diagnosis of compartment syndrome is primarily based on clinical symptoms such as pain out of proportion, pallor, paresthesia, paralysis, and pulselessness, as well as direct measurement of compartment pressures 3, 4. Some key points to consider in the diagnosis and management of compartment syndrome include:
- Early recognition and expeditious surgical treatment are essential to obtain a good clinical outcome and prevent permanent disability 4
- Pain out of proportion to injury is the most reliable early symptom of impending compartment syndrome 4
- Clinicians should focus on immediate clinical assessment and consideration of fasciotomy rather than relying on CRP or other blood tests for diagnosis or management of compartment syndrome 1, 2
- The etiology of acute compartment syndrome in the upper extremity is diverse, and a high index of suspicion must be maintained 4 It's also important to note that CRP's limited utility in this context is due to compartment syndrome being a localized mechanical issue rather than a systemic inflammatory condition, and therefore, CRP is not a reliable or recommended diagnostic tool for compartment syndrome 1, 2.