C-reactive protein as predictor of death in end-stage diabetic nephropathy: Role of peripheral arterial disease

In contrast to patients with peripheral arterial disease stage IV, patients with less severe atherosclerosis and elevated CRP are, if any, at less risk for cardiovascular mortality, possibly due to the difference in extent of affected vasculature and thus activated platelets and coagulation. Before judging the predictive value of CRP for mortality, peripheral vessel status should be determined.