The predictive value of C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin chemical biomarkers in the premature diagnosis of infection in brain ischemic stroke

BACKGROUND: The infections are common complications after the ischemic stroke. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anticipatory value of C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) biomarkers in diagnosis of stroke-induced infection. METHODS: In the current prospective study, 184 patients with cerebral ischemia were enrolled. Serum samples were obtained from patients. The CRP and PCT, white blood cells (WBCs) and monocytes, and final infections were evaluated. RESULTS: In the first 72 hours, the analysis for CRP revealed that the sensitivity was 41.60%, the specificity was 100%, positive predictive value (PPV) was 100%, and negative predictive value (NPV) was 82.90%. PCT showed that the sensitivity was 85.41%, the specificity was 98.54%, PPV was 95.34%, and NPV was 95%. CONCLUSION: According to our findings, the evaluation of CRP and PCT with simultaneous clinical observation could be considered as a good step in start of antibiotic therapy.