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CSF Proteins as Discreminatory Markers of Tubercular and Pyogenic Meningitis

Ravi Shekhar1, J Rama Rao, K Ambika Devi

  • 1Associate Professor, Department of Biochemistry, NRI Medical College , Chinakakani, Guntur, India .

Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research : JCDR
|October 3, 2013
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This study identified specific cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein differences to distinguish between tuberculous and pyogenic meningitis. These findings offer a potential biochemical marker for improved meningitis diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Biochemistry
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Meningitis remains a significant global health concern.
  • Accurate differentiation between tuberculous and pyogenic meningitis is challenging, impacting patient outcomes.
  • Improved diagnostic methods are crucial for effective meningitis management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify a simple biochemical marker for diagnosing meningitis.
  • To differentiate between tuberculous and pyogenic meningitis using CSF protein analysis.

Main Methods:

  • Collected cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from 90 pediatric patients (4 months to 12 years).
  • Categorized samples into control, tuberculous meningitis, and pyogenic meningitis groups (30 each).
  • Performed electrophoretic analysis of CSF proteins to quantify specific fractions.

Main Results:

  • Tuberculous meningitis showed decreased pre-albumin and albumin bands compared to controls and pyogenic meningitis.
  • Pyogenic meningitis exhibited an increased alpha band.
  • Gamma band levels were elevated in tuberculous meningitis.

Conclusions:

  • CSF protein fractions, particularly pre-albumin, albumin, alpha, and gamma bands, can serve as markers.
  • Native Polyacrylamide slab gel electrophoresis of CSF proteins aids in differentiating tuberculous from pyogenic meningitis.
  • This electrophoretic technique offers a potential diagnostic tool for meningitis subtypes.
Keywords:
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)Polyacrylamide slab gel electrophoresisPyogenic meningitisTubercular meningitis

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