C-reactive protein levels in bacteraemia and age
Author Information
Author(s): Wester Astrid L, Blaasaas Karl G, Wyller Torgeir Bruun
Primary Institution: Aker University Hospital
Hypothesis
Is the concentration of C-reactive protein in bacteraemia associated with age?
Conclusion
CRP is better in identifying infection with S. pneumoniae than with E. coli, and while there is a slight negative correlation between age and CRP response, it is not clinically significant.
Supporting Evidence
- The study found a statistically significant negative correlation between age and CRP levels.
- CRP sensitivity was better for S. pneumoniae than for E. coli.
- The median CRP concentration was significantly higher in the youngest age group.
Takeaway
This study looked at how age affects a protein that helps show if someone has a bacterial infection. It found that younger people have higher levels of this protein when they are sick.
Methodology
The study included adult patients with positive blood cultures for E. coli or S. pneumoniae, measuring CRP levels at different time points and comparing results across age groups.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias due to the timing of blood culture and CRP tests.
Limitations
The study may have selection bias and lacks information on comorbidities and the duration of symptoms prior to CRP testing.
Participant Demographics
Median age of bacteraemic patients was 75 years, with 34% under 65, 49% between 65-84, and 17% over 85.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.032
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.952–0.985
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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