Immunoglobulin-M estimation and C-reactive protein detection in neonatal septicemia.

Immunoglobulin-M estimation, and C-Reactive Protein test and blood culture were performed on 57 neonates, clinically suspected to have septicemia. IgM level of > or = 20 mg/dl was found in 58.62% cases and CRP test was positive in 68.98% of culture proven sepsis. Blood culture was positive in 29 cases, with the predominant organism being Klebsiella. Of the 2 tests, CRP had a higher sensitivity (68.97%) while IgM estimation had a higher specificity (82.14%). When the 2 tests were considered together the sensitivity and specificity further increased. Death rate among neonates with IgM levels < 20 mg/dl was 5 times higher than those with elevated IgM levels.