A Normal C Reactive Protein and Significant Bacterial Infection in Literature review

A Normal C Reactive Protein and Significant Bacterial Infection in Children with Fever - Literature review Example One of the most common reasons for Emergency Department (ED) visit is the fever. Fever accounts to approximately 10 – 35% of admissions in children younger than three years of age (Nuttall, 2003; Andreola et al., 2007; Behjati 2008; Liu et al, 2008). In this age group, severe bacterial infections or SBI represents to about 10 – 25%; however, Andreola et al (2007) noted that this diagnosis is frequently confusing especially with the absence of localising findings. Hence, a need for specific and sensitive laboratory markers for infection is required because of the presence of clinical findings such as body temperature. More than a decade ago, an algorithm which incorporates with laboratory findings, such as white blood cell count and absolute neutrophil count was published and was proven to be useful in the medical practice especially in the identification children who are at higher risk of severe bacterial illness. Additional markers such as C – reactive protein ( CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) are maybe useful (Nuttall, 2003; Andreola et al, 2007). In 1930, CRP is discovered by Tillett and Francis as C – Polysaccharide fraction called as fraction C from the sera of an acutely ill patient. In 1941, fraction C was found to be a peptide instead of a polysaccharide, thus renamed as C reactive peptide. In 1950, it was reported that CRP can be detected in more than 70 types of disorders. Carlan added that CRP can be normal in invasive bacterial disease, and produces the largest, the most rapid, and most quantifiable acute response to inflammation and infection.