Clinical characteristics
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A well defined optimal cut off that is comparable between different NICUs
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Favourable diagnostic utilities: sensitivity (approaching 100%) specificity (>85%) positive predictive value (>85%) negative predictive value (approaching 100%)
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Detects infection at an early stage
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Differentiates between different types of pathogen (viral v bacterial)
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Guides antibiotic use (type and duration)
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Monitors progress of treatment
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Prognostication
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Laboratory characteristics
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Stable compound
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Adequate time window for specimen sampling (sustained increase or decrease in level for at least 48 h after the onset of clinical manifestations)
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Quantitative measurement
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Small volume of specimen
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Easy method of measurement
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Quick laboratory turnover time
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Results comparable between laboratories
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Low cost
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