Comparison of total white blood cell count and serum C-reactive protein levels in confirmed bacterial and viral infections

We report the association of reaction in inflammatory markers with the microbiologic etiology of infection in children. Total white blood cell counts were increased in most pneumococcal and Escherichia coli infections, but in less than one-half of Staphylococcus aureus infections. Adenoviruses were the only viral agents that often increased total white blood cell counts or serum C-reactive protein levels.

Abbreviations: WBC, White blood cell count, CRP, C-reactive protein, RSV, Respiratory syncytial virus, UTI, Urinary tract infection