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The protective effect of acute phase reactants in neonatal sepsis.
Acta Paediatrica Scandinavica
|July 1, 1979
Summary
Acute phase reactants like C-reactive protein (CRP) and alpha1-acid glycoprotein (AGP) show promise in identifying neonatal sepsis. Elevated levels in survivors suggest a role in combating infection in newborns.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Neonatal sepsis is a serious condition requiring accurate diagnostic markers.
- Acute phase reactants (APRs) are proteins whose plasma concentrations increase or decrease by at least 25% during inflammatory states.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively evaluate the role of acute phase reactants in diagnosing and predicting outcomes of neonatal sepsis.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 318 infants suspected of sepsis.
- Measurement of C-reactive protein (CRP) using latex agglutination and alpha1-acid glycoprotein (AGP) levels.
- Correlation of APR levels with sepsis diagnosis and patient survival.
Main Results:
- Among 22 proven sepsis cases, 14 survived and 8 died.
- Survivors frequently had positive CRP and elevated AGP (>0.5 g/l).
- Non-survivors rarely had positive CRP or elevated AGP, suggesting these markers differentiate outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Elevated C-reactive protein and alpha1-acid glycoprotein levels are associated with survival in neonatal sepsis.
- These findings support the hypothesis that acute phase reactants play a functional role in combating neonatal infections.