ASSESSMENT OF PROCALCITONIN, WHITE BLOOD CELL COUNT, AND C-REACTIVE PROTEIN AS BIOMARKERS IN ICU RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS AMONG ATHLETES: CORRELATION WITH CPIS SCORE

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the diagnostic value of procalcitonin (PCT), white blood cell count (WBC), and C-reactive protein (CRP) in respiratory infections within an ICU setting and their correlation with the Clinical Pulmonary Infection Score (CPIS) in athletes. This study aims to understand how these biomarkers can help predict and manage respiratory infections in a population that might experience different immunological responses due to their physical conditioning and sports-related stress factors. Methods: This retrospective study included 130 athletes admitted to the ICU with suspected respiratory infections between January 2019 and December 2021. Athletes were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of respiratory infections, confirmed via clinical assessment and CPIS scoring. Levels of PCT, WBC, and CRP were measured upon admission and 48 hours post-admission, using standard laboratory techniques. The effectiveness of these biomarkers in diagnosing respiratory infections was assessed by calculating their sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values based on CPIS scores. Results: Elevated levels of PCT, WBC, and CRP were significantly associated with higher CPIS scores, indicating respiratory infections (P < 0.05). The combined diagnostic approach using all three biomarkers showed improved accuracy over individual biomarker assessments, with a combined sensitivity of 92% and specificity of 89%. Athletes with respiratory infections had higher mean values of PCT, WBC, and CRP compared to those without infections. The correlation analysis reinforced the positive relationship between the severity of infection (as indicated by CPIS) and increased levels of these biomarkers. Conclusion: The integration of PCT, WBC, and CRP measurements offers a robust diagnostic tool for detecting respiratory infections in athletes in ICU settings. This approach not only helps in the early diagnosis but also in monitoring the severity of infections, which is crucial for managing treatment plans effectively and potentially reducing recovery time, ensuring a faster return to training and competition for athletes.