Serum CCR7 as a Diagnostic Biomarker in Acute and Chronic Pyelonephritis in Iraq

Background: Pyelonephritis is a serious kidney infection primarily caused by E. coli. This study evaluated serum CCR7 levels in patients with acute and chronic pyelonephritis. Objectives: To assess serum CCR7 concentrations and determine its potential as a diagnostic biomarker. Methods: A cross-sectional study included 30 acute, 30 chronic pyelonephritis patients, and 29 healthy controls. Serum CCR7 was measured using ELISA and analyzed by one-way ANOVA. Results: CCR7 levels were significantly higher in pyelonephritis patients compared to controls (P < 0.05). Chronic cases showed higher CCR7 levels than acute cases, but the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Elevated CCR7 is associated with pyelonephritis and may serve as a supplementary diagnostic biomarker. Further studies are required to validate its clinical utility.