Question
On the fourth day of antibiotic treatment for empyema of the brain in newborns, the cerebrospinal fluid white blood cell count dropped to 2, and the cerebrospinal fluid protein level was 0.65. The protein qualitative and sugar qualitative tests were both positive. During the initial examination during hospitalization, the cerebrospinal fluid white blood cell count was 24. What does a positive cerebrospinal fluid protein qualitative test indicate?
Answer
A positive cerebrospinal fluid protein qualitative test suggests that the newborn may have some kind of disease. In newborn cerebrospinal fluid tests, a normal protein qualitative test should be negative. If it is positive, it may be due to some disease. A significantly elevated cerebrospinal fluid protein level is often seen in conditions such as empyema of the brain and tuberculous meningitis. It is recommended to provide timely appropriate treatment for the newborn to prevent possible complications.