European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Pleural Tuberculosis(TB) is a common cause of pleural effusion in India[1]. The diagnosis of Tuberculous pleural effusion (TBPE) is usually made by demonstrating Mycobacterium tuberculosis in pleural fluid or sputum. Histopathological demonstration of granulomas in the pleural biopsy specimen can also be used[2]. Mycobacterial smears and cultures of pleural fluid are frequently negative, so various biochemical parameters are used in the early diagnosis of TBPE[3].
The diagnostic value of pleural fluid ADA(Adenosine Deaminase) in TBPE was evaluated by many studies and  it is widely accepted as a diagnostic marker for TBPE[4,5]. But specific equipments required for ADA measurement is not available in developing countries and making this test to perform under high cost. This makes the need for another biochemical marker for diagnosing TBPE, which should be available widely and inexpensive.
The usefulness of pleural fluid C-Reactive Protein in differentiating TBPE  from other causes of effusion was evaluated in various studies[6]. It was found that pleural fluid CRP is elevated in inflammatory effusions than in non inflammatory effusions[7]. Some studies have also proved that CRP levels are higher in tuberculous pleural effusion than in other causes of effusion[8].
This study was conducted to determine the role of pleural fluid CRP in comparison with that of pleural fluid ADA values in the  diagnosis of  patients with TBPE.