Comparison of Sensitivity of Blood Culture, C-Reactive Protein, and Arterial Blood Gases in Early Neonatal Sepsis in a Tertiary Care Centre, Peshawar

Objectives: To determine the sensitivity of serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and arterial blood gases (ABGs) along with blood culture in the diagnosis of early-onset neonatal sepsis. Material and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Pediatrics, Town Women and Children Hospital, Peshawar, from March 2020 to March 2023. A total of 215 neonates diagnosed with Early onset neonatal sepsis were included in the study. Full blood count, arterial blood gases, blood culture, and C-reactive protein were determined and assessed for diagnostic utility. Results: Amongst the 215 neonates, the mean age was 5±2 days. There were 131 (61%) males and 84 (39%) females, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.1 to 0.7. Blood cultures were positive in 77 (36%) and negative in 138 (64%) cases. Arterial blood gases were abnormal in 180 (83%) cases and negative in 35 (17%) cases. Using the standard CRP cut-off value of 5 mg/dl, C-reactive protein was positive in 191 (88%) cases and negative in 24 (12%) cases. Sensitivity for blood culture, arterial blood gases, and C-reactive protein were 35%, 83%, and 88% respectively. Conclusion: C-reactive protein and arterial blood gases are more sensitive for accurate and timely diagnosis of Early Onset Neonatal Sepsis in a resource restraint setup.