Levels of procalcitonin, C-reactive protein and neopterin in patients with advanced HIV-1 infection

Abstract

Objectives. To compare the value of procalcitonin, C-reactive protein (CRP) and neopterin as indicators of immune deficiency, co-infection, efficacy of treatment, and disease progression, in patients with advanced HIV-1 infection.
 
 Design. Cross-sectional, investigating baseline blood measurements and clinical observations in 82 HIV-positive patients divided into an antiretroviral treatment (ART) group and an ART-naïve group.
 
 Setting. Secondary general hospital in Pretoria.
 
 Results. Procalcitonin and CRP levels showed no significant differences between the ART and ART-naïve groups, and no correlations with CD4 counts or viral loads. CRP levels were significantly higher with TB co-infection (p