Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Aims: 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. 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: Out of 110, 100 cases were successfully followed up to 48 hours as was aimed at the beginning of the study and 10 cases failed to complete a 48 hour study period due to various reasons. Out of 100 newborns studied, 65 were male and 35 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. 30 babies improved clinically, whereas 37 babies had almost similar clinical profile. 33 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 (90/100) as well as after 48 hours (94/100). It seems that Hs CRP is very sensitive indicator for neonatal sepsis. Neonates were further categorised in 3 groups depending on clinical improvement and fall or rise of Hs CRP level was studied. It was seen that Hs CRP levels have decreased in group which had shown clinical improvement, however in both other groups it was showing rise. We have calculated independent t-value also for each group and it was seen that change in Hs CRP values after 48 hours was significant. 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.