Abstract | STUDY OBJECTIVES: METHODS: White blood cell counts and cytokine levels (IL-1beta, IL-1Ra, IL-6, IL-8, IL-18, and IFN-gamma) were measured in patients presenting to the emergency department with severe soft-tissue infections and high suspicion of NF. Necrotizing fasciitis was confirmed intraoperatively and by surgical pathology. Cytokines were measured via the liquid-phase electrochemiluminescence method. RESULTS: Thirty-five patients were enrolled, 18 were diagnosed with NF, and 17 were diagnosed with cellulitis and/or abscess (CAB). On admission, patients with NF had significantly higher WBC counts and lower levels of interleukin 1beta (IL-1beta) compared with patients with CAB. There were no statistically significant differences in the levels of the other cytokines between the 2 groups. CONCLUSION: Patients with NF have higher WBC counts and lower IL-1beta levels compared with patients with CAB.
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Authors | Robert M Rodriguez, Rabiatu Abdullah, Robert Miller, Linda Barry, Kathrin Lungstras-Bufler, Phillip Bufler, Charles A Dinarello, Ed Abraham |
Journal | The American journal of emergency medicine
(Am J Emerg Med)
Vol. 24
Issue 1
Pg. 58-61
(Jan 2006)
ISSN: 0735-6757 [Print] United States |
PMID | 16338511
(Publication Type: Comparative Study, Journal Article)
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Chemical References |
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Topics |
- Abscess
(blood, diagnosis, microbiology)
- Adult
- Cellulitis
(blood, diagnosis, microbiology)
- Cytokines
(blood)
- Diagnosis, Differential
- Emergency Service, Hospital
- Fasciitis, Necrotizing
(blood, diagnosis)
- Female
- Humans
- Leukocyte Count
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Pilot Projects
- Prospective Studies
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