Comparison of rapid Semi-Quantitative card test against Immunoturbidimetric Quantitative test for determination of C - reactive protein levels in Neonatal Sepsis

Abstract

The early diagnosis of Neonatal sepsis is important. Because of its various clinical signs and symptoms it is necessary to resort to methods for detecting and treating them as soon as possible. C-reactive protein (CRP) is acute phase protein, widely used in the early diagnosis of Neonatal sepsis. Its rapid synthesis, short half-life and rapid decline with recovery, together with an association between greater increases and serious bacterial infections, have made the CRP test popular. This test is often requested to help discriminate viral infections from bacterial infections or monitor the response to antibiotics. Serial CRP measurement is a good practical guide for discontinuing antibiotic therapy in neonates with suspected sepsis. In present study comparison of a rapid point of care semi quantitative card test was done with quantitative test for measurement of CRP in fifty suspected cases of Neonatal sepsis. Semi quantitative card test is based on the principle of flow through immunochromatography working with whole blood as a samples and hence offer immediate test results where as quantitative test is based on the principle of immunoturbidimetry compatible with serum/plasma as a sample . We have observed very high correlation between two methods in normal as well as abnormal samples. We have also observed that semi quantitative rapid test offer ease of use & interpretation and hence ideal for the physician office laboratory and/or point of care testing.