Correlation between Serum Cystatin C Levels and Clinical Parameters in Children with Urinary Tract Infections

Sim, Ji Hyun; Yim, Hyung Eun; Yoo, Kee Hwan

Abstract

PURPOSE
We aimed to investigate the correlation between serum cystatin C and clinical manifestations in pediatric patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs).
METHODS
We studied 137 patients admitted with UTIs from June 2012 to May 2014. Depending on the presence of renal cortical defects on 99m Tc-dimercaptosuccinic acid scintigraphy, we classified patients into non-renal and renal defect groups. Laboratory and clinical parameters were analyzed, including the levels of serum cystatin C. The correlation between cystatin C and other variables was assessed.
RESULTS
Serum cystatin C levels did not differ between the non-renal and renal defect groups. In both groups, serum cystatin C levels increased after 4-5 days of treatment, compared with the level at admission (P<0.001). However, mean levels were within normal ranges. The concentration of serum cystatin C positively correlated with serum creatinine and negatively correlated with age (P<0.05). In contrast, there was no correlation between serum cystatin C and other variables.
CONCLUSION
Serum cystatin C does not appear to be a useful biomarker for renal defects in pediatric patients with UTIs. Further studies are necessary to conclude whether serum cystatin C is helpful in predicting deterioration in renal function in pediatric patients with UTIs.