Serial quantification of CRP and total leukocyte count as a complementary tool in neonatal sepsis

Early detection and appropriate treatment of newborn sepsis reduce mortality and morbidity. A rapid, inexpensive laboratory approach is needed to assess newborn sepsis, even though blood culture is the gold standard for diagnosis. To compare serial CRP and Total Leukocyte Count (WBC) with blood culture, this study aimed to evaluate the role of newborn sepsis. A total 148 neonates with clinical symptoms of sepsis were included .CRP was measured by quantitative immuno turbidimetric method andotal leukocyte count (WBC) was measured by automated cell counter. CRP1 and WBC1 were measured within 6 hours of clinical symptoms. CRP2 and WBC2 were measured after 48 hours of clinical symptoms. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV of CRP1 and CRP2,WBC 1and WBC 2 were compared with culture positive and negative sepsis.CRP 2 showed high sensitivity 96% and high NPV95% with significant p value <0.0001. WBC2 has high sensitivity (90.57%) and NPV (91%) with significant p value <0.0001. CRP 1 has sensitivity 83%and NPV 82.3%, with p value < 0.001.WBC1 has lowest sensitivity (62.2%) and NPV (71.4%) compared to all other parameters. Serial CRP and WBC measurements are useful in the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis. Measurement of CRP and Total Leukocyte Count (WBC) after 48 hours of clinical symptoms were considered promptly for diagnose neonatal sepsis.