Question
What should be done if a newborn’s blood test shows a high level of C-reactive protein (CRP)?
Answer
A newborn had a blood test at three months old and was found to have a C-reactive protein level of 110. After that, the baby developed a fever up to 39 degrees Celsius, which subsided after treatment. The most common cause of fever is viral infection, leading to acute upper respiratory tract infection. Antiviral medication can be taken orally, and antipyretics can be used when the body temperature exceeds 38.5 degrees Celsius. If the fever persists, it is necessary to check for bacterial infection, and antibiotic treatment may be required. A high CRP level indicates the presence of an infection in the body.