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C-reactive protein and bacterial infection in preterm infants
A Wasunna1, A Whitelaw, R Gallimore
1Department of Paediatrics and Neonatal Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.
European Journal of Pediatrics
|March 1, 1990
Summary
A new highly sensitive C-reactive protein (CRP) assay accurately defines normal ranges in preterm infants. This assay aids in diagnosing bacterial infections and monitoring treatment, even at low concentrations.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
Background:
- Accurate measurement of C-reactive protein (CRP) is crucial for diagnosing neonatal infections.
- Existing assays have limitations in sensitivity, particularly for preterm infants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish normal serum CRP ranges in preterm infants using a novel, highly sensitive immunoassay.
- To evaluate the utility of this new assay in diagnosing and monitoring bacterial infections in neonates.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 193 consecutively born preterm infants.
- Measurement of serum CRP using a new solid-phase ligand-binding radiometric monoclonal antibody immunoassay.
- Comparison of CRP levels in infants with and without infection, and with healthy adults.
Main Results:
- Defined normal CRP ranges for preterm infants (cord, 24h, 48h) for the first time, below thresholds of existing assays.
- Observed significantly lower CRP values in cord serum of preterm infants compared to healthy adults.
- Demonstrated high sensitivity in detecting elevated CRP in infants with confirmed septicaemia (8/9 infants), aiding diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
Conclusions:
- The new highly sensitive CRP assay provides accurate normal ranges for preterm infants.
- Serum CRP measurement is a valuable tool for early diagnosis and exclusion of bacterial infections in neonates.
- This assay facilitates informed decisions regarding antibiotic use and treatment monitoring.