It is said that elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and the elevation of C-reactive protein (CRP) may be indicators of continuing joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis. What then is the explanation for joint destruction in some patients in whom there is no such apparent elevation of either the sedimentation rate of CRP?

It is said that elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and the elevation of C-reactive protein (CRP) may be indicators of continuing joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis. What then is the explanation for joint destruction in some patients in whom there is no such apparent elevation of either the sedimentation rate or CRP?