Clinical factors associated with C-reactive protein in chronic spinal cord injury.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES

Determine clinical factors associated with plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) in persons with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI).

SETTING

Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Boston, MA, USA.

METHODS

Participants provided a blood sample, completed a respiratory health questionnaire and underwent dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to assess total and regional body fat. Linear regression models were used to assess cross-sectional associations with plasma CRP.

RESULTS

In multivariable models, factors associated with a higher CRP included a greater BMI, urinary catheter use, a respiratory illness in the past week and non-white race. Mean CRP also increased with decreasing mobility (motorized wheelchair >hand-propelled wheelchair >walk with an assistive device >walk independently). Results were similar when adjusting for percentage android, gynoid, trunk or total fat mass in place of BMI. Level and completeness of SCI was not associated with CRP in multivariable models.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical characteristics common in chronic SCI are associated with plasma CRP. These factors are more important than the level and completeness of SCI and some are potentially modifiable.