Association between serum C-reactive protein levels and clinical and laboratory characteristics of patients with polycythemia vera

Analysis of serum CRP levels in 197 patients with polycythemia vera revealed positive correlations with fibrinogen (rs=0,46, p<0,001), interleukin-6 (r=0,38, p<0,001), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (rs=0,47, p<0,001). A notable association was identified between elevated CRP levels (>5 mg/l) and the frequency of increased D-dimer concentrations (Pearson’s χ2 test p=0,031). Additionally, a weak but detectable correlation was observed with hyperhomocysteinemia and decreased protein S levels, potentially contributing to thrombotic complications. CRP levels correlated significantly with leukocyte count (rs=0,20, p=0,034), particularly neutrophils (rs=0,23, p=0,012) and monocytes count (rs=0,26, p=0,004), as well as with uric acid levels (rs=0,26, p=0,005), gamma-glutamyl transferase activity (rs=0,25, p=0,006), and urea levels (rs=0,20, p=0,036). Elevated CRP values were more prevalent among patients with a history of cancer, diabetes mellitus, or coronary heart disease, although differences did not reach statistical significance.