Rapid Test for Detection of the Focus of Infection in Post Neurosurgical Patients.

Background: Due to anatomical restrictions, the inflammatory response to intra-cerebral bacterial infections exposes swollen brain tissues to pressure and ischemia, resulting in life-threatening damage. However, diagnosing meningitis in patients after neurosurgery is complicated, due to brain tissue damage and changes in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) caused by surgery. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a local, acute-phase protein. Previous studies on community-acquired septic meningitis reported high levels of intrathecal-produced HGF. Aim: The aim of present study is to evaluate a new platform for qualitative determination of HGF in body fluids and revealing the site of injury. Method: Based on a reverse-methachromacy method, strips are prepared. The surface on the strip changes colour to blue upon contact with HGF. Plan: CSF, urine and sputum of patients that develop fever post neurosurgery are analysed with the test and the results compared with conventional diagnostic methods. Clinical value: A rapid, equipment-free test gives the opportunity to identify the infectious focus in the infected organ long before culture results are available.