Applications of acute phase reactants in infectious diseases
H L Johnson1, C C Chiou, C T Cho
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City 66160, USA.
Summary
Acute phase reactants (APRs) indicate infection or inflammation. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a superior marker for disease severity and treatment response compared to other APRs.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Acute phase reactants (APRs) are non-specific markers of host response to infection, inflammation, or tissue injury.
- APRs play a role in restoring homeostasis and enhancing survival.
- Monitoring APRs can aid in diagnosing suspected infections or inflammatory conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical utility of various acute phase reactants as markers for disease.
- To compare the diagnostic and prognostic value of C-reactive protein (CRP) against other APRs.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of serum levels of various acute phase reactants.
- Correlation of APR levels with disease severity, inflammation, and tissue injury.
- Comparative assessment of fibrinogen, complement proteins, and C-reactive protein (CRP).
Main Results:
- Fibrinogen and complement protein levels show minor increases during inflammation, offering limited diagnostic value.
- C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations increase significantly with acute invasive infections.
- CRP elevation levels closely parallel the severity of inflammation and tissue injury.
Conclusions:
- C-reactive protein (CRP) is a more sensitive and clinically useful marker than other APRs for detecting disease.
- CRP levels are valuable for assessing disease presence, monitoring response to therapy, and predicting recovery.
- The marked increase in CRP during acute infections makes it a key biomarker in clinical practice.
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