Evaluation of diagnostic and prognostic value of high sensitivity C reactive protein (Hs-CRP) in community acquired pneumonia

BackgroundBecause the cost of inpatient care for pneumonia is up to 25 times greater than that of outpatient care, CRP could be useful in deciding whether hospitalization is necessary. Indeed, because of the wide number of clinical conditions associated with Hs-CRP levels, Hs-CRP can never be diagnostic on its own and can only be interpreted at the bedside, in full knowledge of all other clinical and pathologic results. However, it can then contribute powerfully to management, just as recording of the patient’s temperature, an equally nonspecific parameter, is of great clinical utility.Aim of workTo evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic value of serum level of high sensitivity C reactive protein in community acquired pneumonia.Subjects and methodsThis is a prospective study in which Hs-CRP was measured in 54 patients admitted to chest department or respiratory I.C.U. in Abbasia Chest Hospital with a recently diagnosed community acquired pneumonia which is confirmed clinically and radiological from January 2010 to June 2010 using Nephlometry method (Siemens Prospec).ResultsThere was significant correlation between serum Hs-CRP level and outcome of cases (died or survived). The results showed a significant correlation between serum Hs-CRP level and need of I.C.U. admission, need of oxygen therapy, need of mechanical ventilation as well as a significant positive correlation between serum Hs-CRP level and length of hospital stay among survived patients.ConclusionsHs-CRP has a significant prognostic value in community acquired pneumonia and can be used as a marker of severity.