The Effect of Dexmedetomidine on Post-Operative C-Reactive Protein Levels in Patients Undergoing Brain Tumor Resection: A Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Brain tumour resection surgery is a major intracranial procedure that triggers systemic stress and inflammatory responses, characterized by an increase in C-reactive protein (CRP) levels postoperatively. Dexmedetomidine, a selective α₂-adrenergic receptor agonist, has been reported to have sympatholytic and anti-inflammatory effects that potentially reduce inflammatory markers, including CRP. Objective: To review the scientific evidence regarding the effect of dexmedetomidine administration on postoperative CRP levels in patients undergoing brain tumor resection. Methods: A literature review was conducted by examining pharmacological and physiological evidence, as well as clinical data from studies on neurosurgical populations and other relevant types of surgery. The literature covered the mechanism of action of dexmedetomidine, postoperative CRP dynamics, and studies assessing the anti-inflammatory effects of dexmedetomidine. Results: CRP generally peaked on day 2 postoperatively and decreased on day 4 in patients without infection, whereas in patients with complications, CRP values remained high or increased again on day 5. Several clinical studies in cardiac and spinal surgery have shown that dexmedetomidine can reduce CRP, IL-6, TNF-α, and other inflammatory mediators. In the sepsis population, dexmedetomidine also reduced CRP compared to controls. Although direct data in the brain tumor resection population are still limited, its pharmacological effects consistently support its potential for inflammatory modulation. Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine has the potential to reduce the postoperative inflammatory response through suppression of sympathetic activity and cytokine modulation, which may indirectly reduce elevated CRP in patients after brain tumor resection. More specific clinical research in neurosurgical populations is needed to confirm its efficacy and clinical implications for preventing complications and improving neurological outcomes.