[Beta trace protein in the cerebrospinal fluid and serum in meningoencephalitis]. / Proteína beta traza en líquido cefalorraquídeo y suero en meningoencefalitis.

INTRODUCTION: beta-trace protein or D2 prostaglandin synthase is a dual functional protein. Its role and clinical value in cerebrospinal fluid is under study. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Seventy four pediatric patients suffering from viral meningoencephalitis and 7 with bacterial meningoencephalitis were studied. Sera and cerebrospinal fluid samples were taken. Albumin and beta-trace protein were quantified by immunodiffusion and nephelometry respectively. RESULTS: Increased cerebrospinal fluid beta-trace protein levels in comparison with normal value were observed. Nevertheless such expected increment was no possible seen in bacterial meningoencephalitis. CONCLUSIONS: beta-trace protein may contribute with the etiological diagnosis in meningoencephalitis.