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Serum C-reactive Protein (CRP) Level in Tuberculous Patients
N Naher1, L Helaly, Z H Sarker
1Dr Nazmun Naher, Medical Officer, Institute of Public Health, Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Insights
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a valuable tool for diagnosing and monitoring tuberculosis in children. Elevated CRP levels in tuberculous patients normalized after four weeks of treatment, indicating its prognostic utility.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis and prognosis in children require reliable biomarkers.
- C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase reactant with potential diagnostic and prognostic value.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the role of C-reactive protein (CRP) levels as a diagnostic and prognostic indicator in pediatric tuberculosis patients.
Main Methods:
- A prospective case-control study involving 60 children (30 with TB, 30 healthy controls).
- Serum CRP levels were measured in tuberculosis patients and compared to healthy children.
- CRP levels were monitored during a four-week treatment period.
Main Results:
- CRP was elevated (>6 mg/L) in 83.3% of pediatric tuberculosis cases.
- A significant difference (p<0.001) in serum CRP levels was observed between TB patients and healthy children.
- CRP levels normalized in patients after four weeks of anti-tuberculosis treatment.
Conclusions:
- Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) is a useful biomarker for diagnosing tuberculosis in children.
- CRP levels can serve as a prognostic indicator, reflecting treatment response in pediatric TB patients.
Abstract:
The present prospective case control study was carried out to assess the role of C-reactive protein (CRP) level as a diagnostic and prognostic tool of tuberculous patients. The study was conducted in the Department of Paediatrics over a period of one year. Total 60 persons were included. Case was 30 and control was 30. Out of 30 tuberculosis patients 18(60%) had pulmonary tuberculosis, 6(20%) had abdominal TB, 3(10%) had pleural effusion and 3(10%) had tubercular lymphadenopathy. CRP was positive>6 mg/L in 25(83.3%) cases. CRP level was negative after 4 weeks of treatment. There is significant difference at p<0.001 in serum CRP level in between tuberculosis and healthy children. The study concluded that CRP level is a useful indication for diagnosis and prognosis of tuberculous patients.
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