Researchers say untangling the relationship between inflammation and C-reactive protein can lead to better treatment of depression and anxiety.
C-reactive protein is made by the liver and released into the bloodstream in response to inflammation.
UPI reports a new analysis from the Netherlands says immune reactions linked to depression and anxiety may lead to better screening and treatment of both.
The researchers compared blood test findings from adults with depression, anxiety, or both to those of healthy controls.
They observed that those with depression alone had elevated C-reactive protein, while those with anxiety alone did not.
Depression has been associated with disturbances in the body's immune system and metabolism.
Also, depressed people tend to have different biochemical markers to those of healthy people.