Serum C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate changes in children after adenotonsillectomy

Background: Sleep-disordered breathing is a common problem in children and is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity. The circulating level of C-reactive protein, a pro-inflammatory protein, is associated with increased risk for atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was the comparison of C-reactive protein level and erythrocyte sedimentation rate in children with tonsillar hypertrophy before and after adenotonsillectomy.

Methods: All patients aged between 4 to 10 years who had underwent adenotonsillectomy due to obstructive sleep apnea were enrolled. Serum C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were measured before and after adenotonsillectomy. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 19.

Results: In this study, 384 patients were enrolled. The average age of the patients was 6.7 years. The C-reactive protein level in 91 patients (23.7 %) was decreased and in 286 patients (74.5%) did not change and in 7 patients (1.8%) it was increased. Decreasing serum C-reactive protein level and erythrocyte sedimentation rate was statistically significant after adenotonsillectomy (P-value < 0.05).

Conclusion: Obstructive sleep apnea induces a systemic inflammatory response so frequently associated with an increase in serum C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate that is reversible with surgery and if left untreated may lead to cardiovascular morbidity.