Clinical biochemistry
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Clinical biochemistry · Aug 2008
High C5a levels are associated with increased mortality in sepsis patients--no enhancing effect by actin-free Gc-globulin.
Immune paralysis of phagocytic cells due to excess of the complement activation product C5a has been proposed as a critical pathomechanism in sepsis. In vitro studies suggest an interaction of C5a with Group-specific globulin (Gc-globulin). ⋯ Investigation for C5a and/or actin-free Gc-globulin serum levels upon admission to the ICU may be helpful diagnostic tools. In patients with sepsis, C5a levels are an independent predictor of prognosis. However, different to pre-existing in vitro data, a clinically relevant interaction between actin-free Gc-globulin and C5a in terms of prognosis in severe inflammatory conditions is not given.
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The aim of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic value of the enzyme creatine kinase (CK) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of children with meningitis. ⋯ Measuring the total CK level in the CSF may be very useful in diagnosis of meningitis if only combined with other CSF markers. It is not of any much benefit if it is used solely.