CRP and rheumatoid arthritis: Conversely, a study of individuals prior to onset of symptoms of RA reported a more atherogenic lipid profile with higher levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides and apolipoprotein (Apo)B in addition to lower levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol compared with control subjects, independent of RF and ACPA, and marginally affected by CRP [13].