By the way, doctor: Does post-herpetic neuralgia raise C-reactive protein?

Q. Can a prolonged period of post-herpetic neuralgia (an aftermath of shingles) elevate C-reactive protein?

A. C-reactive protein (CRP) is one of several proteins made by the liver and released into the bloodstream during episodes of inflammation. Blood levels of CRP rise in response to infection, both acute and chronic (periodontal disease, for example); chronic inflammatory conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or rheumatoid arthritis; and some forms of cancer.