Evaluation of serum C-reactive protein in the diagnosis of arthritic and non-arthritic brucellosis.

The level of the acute-phase reactant C-reactive protein was determined in the sera of patients with brucellosis who had arthritic involvement (17 patients) as well as in those who had no arthritis (28 patients). The level was also determined in a group of age-matched controls (31 subjects). Patients with brucellosis had significantly higher levels than controls. Patients without arthritis showed a greater elevation than those with joint involvement. C-reactive protein assay is a helpful adjunct in the diagnosis, and in monitoring the treatment, of patients with brucellosis.