Initial CRP concentrations (days 1–3) did not significantly differ in patients developing a proven infection (109 mg/l versus 136 mg/l, P = 0.028; not significant according to multiple comparisons) or in patients in whom infection was suspected (109 mg/l versus 122 mg/l, P = 0.163; not significant according to multiple comparisons). The gene discussed is CRP; the disease is infection.