Study of Serum Highly Sensitive C-reactive Protein in Normotensive Diabetics and Hypertensive Diabetics

Diabetes mellitus and hypertension are known to increase markers of inflammation, ie, highly sensitive C-reactive protein [(hs)CRP], especially when they develop microalbuminuria. A total of 70 patients (37 males and 33 females), all having diabetes mellitus, according to ADA criteria and micro-albuminuria in morning spot urine sample were recruited in the study. They were randomised into 2 groups. Group A comprised hypertensive (34 patients) and Group B (36 patients) normotensive individuals. (hs)CRP level was assessed in all patients by routine assay. (hs)CRP value of >3 mg/L was observed in 28.57% patients of group A and 12.86% patients of group B (p=0.004). So diabetic patients with micro-albuminuria had more frequent association with increased marker of inflammation in the hypertensive group compared to those without hypertension.