Estimation of Creactive protein in Neonates with Suspected Septicemia at Bhuj, Kutch, Gujarat, India A Prospective Study

Dr. Monil Shah; Dr. Mehul Sevak

Volume : V, Issue : VIII, August - 2016

Estimation of Creactive protein in Neonates with Suspected Septicemia at Bhuj, Kutch, Gujarat, India A Prospective Study

Dr. Monil Shah, Dr. Mehul Sevak

Abstract :

Background and Aim: Despite the promising results for some diagnostic markers, current evidence suggests that none of them can consistently diagnose 100% of infected cases. Present study was performed with an aim to estimate C–reactive protein in Neonates with Suspected Septicemia at Bhuj, Kutch, Gujarat, India. Material and Methods: This prospective study was conducted in the neonatal unit of general hospital from December 2014 to December 2015 at Department of Pediatrics, Gujarat Adani Institute of Medical Science, Bhuj, Kutch, Gujarat, India. Approximately 5ml of blood was collected from the umbilical cord after clamping & cutting of the cord. About 48hrs after birth, approximately 2ml of blood was collected by venipuncture from the newborn. Samples were transported without any delay to the laboratory for CRP estimation. CRP value was calculated at birth. Newborn babies were observed for signs of sepsis for at least 48h. Clinical data were collected using a questionnaire Results: The main presenting symptoms in child include the Refusal to feed, lethargy and poor cry. CRP was positive in 45 patients at admission; 25 of whom remained positive at 48 hours. Of the 85 neonates with suspected neonatal septicemia, CRP was ≤ 6 mg/L at 48 hours in 65 cases; 15 of these showed positive blood culture. Conclusion: CRP is most widely & extensively used marker of neonatal sepsis. Intrapartum risk factors for early onset sepsis can cause elevation of cord & neonatal CRP levels in the absence of infection.