235
Views
15
CrossRef citations to date
0
Altmetric
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

Evaluation of a quick test for C‐reactive protein in a pediatric emergency department

, , , , , & show all
Pages 717-722 | Received 07 Nov 2005, Accepted 07 Aug 2006, Published online: 08 Jul 2009
 

Abstract

Objective. C‐reactive protein (CRP) is a reliable laboratory test that is useful in distinguishing between viral and bacterial infection. Although widely used, blood sampling and the need for a well‐organized laboratory are limiting factors. Recently, a rapid test for serum CRP (QuickRead CRP) has been developed that can use both venous and capillary blood. The aim of this study was to use QuickRead CRP in our Pediatric Emergency Department and to compare this method with the standard laboratory determination (CRP‐lab). Material and methods. All children with fever were given a quick CRP test simultaneously with venous (CRP‐V) and capillary blood samples (CRP‐C). A total of 127 children were included in the study (median age 2.5 years). Results. The QuickRead CRP test had an excellent correlation with the standard biochemical determination (CRP‐lab). More importantly, there was no difference in determination of CRP in the venous and capillary blood samples. Finally, there was no significant intra‐assay variability. Conclusions. The QuickRead CRP test is easy to use, provides reliable results and reduces the need for antibacterial therapy.

Acknowledgements

We thank Diagnostiki Analyitki, Athens, Greece, representing Orion Diagnostica, Espoo, Finland, for donating the QuickRead 101 instrument and kits and for providing training for its use.

Reprints and Corporate Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

To request a reprint or corporate permissions for this article, please click on the relevant link below:

Academic Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

Obtain permissions instantly via Rightslink by clicking on the button below:

If you are unable to obtain permissions via Rightslink, please complete and submit this Permissions form. For more information, please visit our Permissions help page.