Abstract

C-reactive protein (C-RP), an acute phase reactant detected in the CSF by Latex agglutination method is a helpful tool to differentiate between bacterial and non-bacterial meningitis at bed side. Many studies doubt efficacy of the test. Absence of C-RP rather than its presence is more important for the diagnosis of tubercular meningitis. This prospective study was being performed on children between age group of 2 month to 18 years of age with symptoms and signs suggestive of meningitis with CSF showing pleocytosis admitted in hospital. In the present study positive qualitative blood CRP (>0.6 mg/dl) is seen 100% positive in BM, 46% positive in TBM and 100% negative in viral memingitis. However taking quantitative blood CRP level of more than 4.8mg/dl has senisitvity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 100% in diagnosing BM.

Description