β-trace protein: A marker of cerebrospinal fluid fistulas

Objectives. - beta-trace protein is a valuable marker of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage. However, there is still a controversy about the appropriate cut off to be used (range 0.35-6 mg/L). The aim of this study was to evaluate the nephelometric beta-trace protein assay for the diagnosis of liquorrhea. Patients and method. - A total of 20 samples of CSF and serum from control patients and 36 specimens from patients with liquorrhea were analysed. Results. - The mean concentration of p-trace protein was 0.59 +/- 0.13 mg/L in serum of control patients and 17.6 +/- 5.8 mg/L in CSF. At a cut off of 1.1 mg/L, specificity was 100% with a sensitivity of 96%. Conclusion. - Nephelometric measurement of P-trace protein is a noninvasive and fast method that can be used for CSF leakage diagnosis. It should be kept in mind, however, that the cut off of 1.1 mg/L is not suitable for patients with bacterial meningitis and those with reduced glomerular filtration. (C) 2008 Elsevier Masson SAS. Tous droits reserves.