OBJECTIVETo investigate the clinical significance of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in the treatment of spinal tuberculosis.

METHODSSixty-seven patients (41 males and 26 females, ranging in age from 23 to 61 years) with active spinal tuberculosis in our hospital (from Mar. 2004 to Mar. 2007) were included in this study. The tuberculosis focus were located either in cervical spine, thoracic spine or in lumbar spine. After 4 to 6 weeks anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy, all the patients underwent one-stage operation (focus debridment) and auto-bone graft combined with internal fixation. Blood test for ESR and CRP were carried out at different times before and after operation.

RESULTSThe average ESR was (79.4 +/- 35.6) mm/h, and the average CRP was (44.3 +/- 17.5) mg/L before chemotherapy, indicating active tuberculosis focus. After 4 to 6 weeks chemotherapy, the average ESR was (45.3 +/- 21.0) mm/h,and the average CRP was (26.7 +/- 11.8) mg/L, the differences were statistically (P < 0.05), and the clinical symptoms of spinal tuberculosis relieved in all patients. Four weeks after operation, the average ESR dropped to (42.8 +/- 16.5)mm/h, the average CRP dropped to (23.8 +/- 10.0) mg/L statistically (P < 0.05). Eight weeks after operation, the average value of ESR and CRP were at normal level in 47 cases, indicating inactive tuberculosis focus. Focus healing was achieved in 65 patients after short-term chemotherapy.

CONCLUSIONThe level of ESR and CRP are high in active spinal tuberculosis and low when focus controlled. ESR and CRP are reliable parameters in evaluation the treatment and prognosis of spinal tuberculosis.