To minimize this possibility, we measured important markers of systemic inflammation, including total blood count with differential; concentrations of rheumatoid factor, fibrinogen, and C-reactive protein; and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and excluded all patients and controls with abnormal results. Measurement of CCL3 and other chemokine levels in nasal secretions is, by far, the most sensitive and specific method to evaluate their presence in allergic rhinitis. The gene discussed is CRP; the disease is allergic rhinitis.