Online ISSN: 2515-8260

A prospective study to assess the function of Hs CRP in Sepsis Spectrum in neonates

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Dr. Amit Kumar1 , Dr. Jayant Prakash2*

Abstract

Aim: The present study is carried to evaluate the role of Hs CRP in Sepsis Spectrum-Birth to 2 Months. Methods: This prospective observational study was carried out in the Department of Pediatrics, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, Bihar, India for 15 months. Each paediatric patient who came to our Hospital was initially categorized according to age till 2 months of age. Neonates were graded according to the signs and symptoms of FIMNCI. FIMNCI considers bacterial infections in young infants when signs or symptoms of sepsis, pneumonia or meningitis are present. 2 ml of blood was again collected from the corresponding patient in a plain bulb under all aseptic precautions. The sample was then sent laboratory for CRP testing. Results: A total 130, 110 cases were successfully followed up to 48 hours as was aimed at the beginning of the study and 20 cases failed to complete a 48 hour study period due to various reasons. Out of 110 newborns studied, 72 were male and 38 were female babies. Clinical improvement was assessed by hemodynamic profile, absence of presenting complaint/s and ability to tolerate feed and absence of blood culture positivity of first culture. 34 babies improved clinically, whereas 42 babies had almost similar clinical profile. 34 babies showed clinical downward status in spite of starting empirical antibiotics and supportive treatment. Surprisingly, majority of babies had shown positivity in HS-CRP at admission (97/110) as well as after 48 hours (103/110).Mean and median of all babies as shown in Table 3 was not conclusive about severity of infection and CRP values. It seems that Hs CRP is very sensitive indicator for neonatal sepsis. Conclusion: The study revealed that HS CRP levels were increased in all cases of suspected neonatal sepsis. They remained high in neonates who had deteriorated or remained same clinically at 48 hours of follow-up. However, they significantly reduced in neonates showing clinical improvement. Keywords: C-reactive protein (CRP), Hs CRP, IMNCI, Neonatal sepsis.

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