Serum procalcitonin level in monitorization of surgical site infections in neonates

A retrospective study was performed to evaluate the role of white blood cell (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) levels in the follow- up and treatment of surgical site infections (SSI) in neonates. Neonates who underwent surgical intervention (n:34) were evaluated for gestational age, sex, diagnosis, inflammatory markers (WBC, CRP, PCT), clinical findings, results of cultures and response to antimicrobial treatment. Records of 34 neonates and 36 surgical interventions were included to the study. Twenty (58.8%) of patients had SSI. Postoperatively CRP, WBC and PCT levels were increased (77%, 77%, 77% respectively) in patients with SSI. Postoperatively CRP, and WBC levels were increased (57% and 64% respectively) in patients without SSI. In conclusion, CRP levels and WBC count were significantly increased in 77% of cases after surgery. Increased PCT levels were detected only in patients with SSI. PCT levels may be considered as the most valuable marker to monitor SSI in neonates after surgery.