Influence of perinatal conditions on C-reactive protein production.

C-reactive protein rises in blood in an acute-phase response in adults, children, and neonates. In a prospective study of the influence of perinatal asphyxia, premature rupture of membranes, hyperbilirubinemia, and respiratory distress syndrome on levels of C-reactive protein in the neonate, we detected no confounding effect on the rise of C-reactive protein level in infants with these pathologic perinatal conditions, as compared with the results of a control group.