C-reactive protein testing in primary care and antibiotic use in children with acute respiratory tract infections in Kyrgyzstan: an open-label, individually randomised, controlled trial.

BACKGROUND

Addressing the global antibacterial resistance crisis and aligning with the Kyrgyz Ministry of Health's research priorities, this study assesses the efficacy and safety of C-reactive protein (CRP) testing to guide antibiotic prescriptions in children with acute respiratory tract infections (ARTI) in Kyrgyzstan.

METHODS

In this open label individually randomised controlled trial, children aged 6 months to 12 years with ARTI in primary care settings were assigned to receive either standard care or standard care plus CRP testing. The study measured two primary outcomes: total antibiotic usage over a 14-day follow-up and caregiver-reported time to recovery. Follow-up assessments (days 3, 7, 14) were blinded. Trial registration: NCT05195866.

FINDINGS

A total of 1204 patients were randomised. Antibiotic use was lower in the CRP group (216/601, 36%) compared to the control group (362/603, 60%; Risk difference: 24 percentage points; 95% confidence interval (CI): 15-34). There was no significant difference in time to recovery (log-rank test p = 0.090) and the prespecified non-inferiority margin of one day was not exceeded. Hospital admissions were similar in both groups (CRP: 31 (5%), control: 26 (4%); odds ratio (OR) 1.20, 95% CI 0.69-2.10), but the CRP group re-consulted more often (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.01-1.71) during the 14 days of follow-up.

INTERPRETATION

Implementing CRP testing in primary care for paediatric ARTI in Kyrgyzstan significantly reduced antibiotic use without negative effects on safety, supporting its role in national antimicrobial stewardship strategies.

FUNDING

International Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance Solutions (ICARS).