Sadhna Sodani

Abstract

Introduction: In neonates, septicaemia is one of leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Therefore, timely diagnosis is important to prevent fatal outcome. C-reactive protein is an important biomarker that aids in the timely diagnosis of neonatal septicaemia. Aim: The present study was carried out to compare the accuracy of CRP in the diagnosis of neonatal septicaemia with blood culture. Materials and Methods: 148 neonates diagnosed with neonatal sepsis were included in the study over a period of 6 months. Blood culture and semi-qualitative assessment of CRP was done for all the patients. Results: Of the 148 neonates studied, 53 were blood culture positive while 101 were CRP positive. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and diagnostic accuracy of CRP were 86.7%, 43%, 45.5%, 85% and 69% respectively. Conclusion: The specificity and sensitivity of CRP against blood culture strengthen the use of this acute phase protein in the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis. Keywords: Osteomyelitis, Gastroenteritis, Pyelonephritis, Endocarditis.

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Abstract

Aim: To study the seroprvalence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and associated factors among pregnant women in tertiary health care center. Materials and Methods: A total of 2224 antenatal women(age ranging from 18-40yrs) attending the outpatient department of Maharaja Yashwant Rao Hospital, Indore from Jan 2019 to May 2019 were included in the study. They were screened for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) by rapid test based on immunochromatography in the Department of Microbiology, M.G.M. Medical College. Results: Out of 2224 pregnant women, 26(1.16%) women were found to be positive for Hepatitis B surface antigen result. The age of women varied between 20 and 40 years with mean age was 25.6 years. History of blood transfusion were found in nine females (34.6%) statistically significant for HBV infection. 4(0.17%) of the patients who tested seropositive for HBsAg had tested positive for HIV infection also. Conclusion: Hepatitis B is emerging as a significant health problem in India. Programme for prevention and control of Hepatitis B should be considered as priority basis by the government and health services in India. Screening of all pregnant women for HBV irrespective of high risk factors can reduce risks of HBV infection and carrier state. Keywords: Hepatitis B surface antigen, Pregnant women, Perinatal transmission, Seroprevalence, HBV.

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