Abstract
Introduction: Serum level of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), as an inflammatory
marker, can play a role in development of metabolic syndrome in obese individuals.
Objectives: This study aimed to determine serum concentration of hs-CRP in obese patients
with metabolic syndrome and determine the association of this factor with factors involved in the
progression of metabolic syndrome.
Patients and Methods: In this study, samples were selected by convenient method from obese
patients, admitted to Kashani and Hajar hospitals (Shahrekord, Iran). First, based on NCEP-ATPIIIdefined
metabolic syndrome, parameters of metabolic syndrome and serum levels of vitamin D
were measured and a questionnaire containing demographics was completed for each participant.
Accordingly, the samples (n=192) were divided into two identical groups; obese individuals without
metabolic syndrome (controls) and obese individuals with metabolic syndrome (case group). HsCRP
levels were measured in both groups.
Results: Serum level of hs-CRP in the case group was 17.58±1.40 µg/mL and in the control group
was 9.04±1.26 µg/mL, which was significantly higher in the case group than the control group
(P<0.001). Serum concentration of hs-CRP in case and control subjects had a negative significant
correlation with vitamin D (P<0.001), however, serum level of hs-CRP had no significant
association with high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglyceride (TG), fasting blood
sugar (FBS), abdominal circumference, body mass index (BMI), and height (P>0.05).
Conclusion: Hs-CRP can be used for prognosis and early detection of patients at risk of metabolic
syndrome.