The diagnostic value of leukocyte indices and micro-erythrocyte sedimentation rate in neonatal infections.

In an attempt to compare sensitivity, specificity and predictive values of newborn screening tests for sepsis, leukocyte indices derived from healthy African neonates, Manroe's published indices, micro-erythrocyte sedimentation rates (Mini-ESR) and a combination of the Mini-ESR and leukocyte indices of African neonates were applied to 32 infected infants and 20 uninfected neonates studied prospectively. The sensitivity, specificity and predictive values derived from Manroe's indices were 93%, 35% and 69.8% respectively. The corresponding values derived from the indices of African neonates were 84.4%, 95% and 96.4%. Local reference values were thus more specific and predictive. Values obtained by combining Mini-ESR with indices of the African Neonates were 100%, 85% and 94%. The Mini-ESR alone yielded a sensitivity of 96.9%, specificity of 90% and a predictive value of 94%. The mini-ESR alone may therefore be a more valuable test in the sepsis screening of the African neonate.