C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is a special type of protein produced in the liver that is present during episodes of both acute and chronic cardiovascular inflammation.  The American Heart Association and the Centers for Disease Control are now urging doctors to test patients at moderate risk for heart disease for signs of cardiovascular inflammation.  Researchers have concluded that elevated CRP levels in the blood are a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease.  This is further complicated when oxidized LDL cholesterol, dead white blood cells, fibrin and collagen fibers accumulate in the walls of arteries forming plaques. This build-up of inflammatory debris significantly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.