Is C-reactive protein useful in the management of children with suspected bacterial meningitis?

C-reactive protein (CRP) was evaluated in both serum and cerebrospinal fluid in 119 patients to determine if either or both measurements were of clinical value in the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. CSF C-reactive protein is too insensitive (sensitivity = 66%) to be useful, while serum CRP is too nonspecific for routine application. Serum CRP may have a role if used selectively in those patients with a low-grade CSF pleocytosis and a negative Gram's stain.