Odontogenic infections: C-reactive protein as a predictor of infection severity and inpatient trajectory

To determine the utility of serum C-reactive protein concentration prior to treatment as a predictor of total length of hospital stay (LOS), intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and return to theatre (RTT) for inpatients with severe odontogenic infections (such as deep neck space involvement or systemic compromise). This retrospective study analysed 206 patients admitted for surgical drainage under general anaesthesia at the Western Health Oral and Maxillofacial unit between 2012 and 2020. Data collected included patient demographics, CRP on admission, clinical features and outcomes (ICU admission, LOS and RTT). Elevated CRP levels (≥150 mg/L) were significantly associated with increased hospital LOS (β: 2.831 days), higher ICU admission rates (OR: 5.504), and a greater likelihood of re-drainage (OR: 13.53). The study developed a new predictive model for LOS based on CRP measurement on admission: LOS = 0.023 x CRP +1.77. Elevated CRP levels indicate higher risks of prolonged LOS, increased need for RTT and higher rates of ICU admissions. These findings can support the use of CRP in predictive modelling for patient trajectory, resource allocation and emergency patient management.