Multi-detector angio-CT and the use of D-dimer for the diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischemia in geriatric patients.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

There is no specific laboratory method for the diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI). In this study, we aimed to determine the efficacy of the D-dimer test in selected cases prior to multi-detector angio-CT, which is expensive and has side effects.

METHODS:

Patients, over 65, with abdominal pain were included in this study. The D-dimer test was applied to 230 (34%) of 676 abdominal pain patients admitted to our emergency service. The D-dimer levels of the patients diagnosed with AMI by angio-CT were compared.

RESULTS:

In AMI patients sensitivity of the D-dimer test was 84.6% and the specificity was 47.9%. Elevated D-dimer levels and AF were observed in 90.9% of the patients diagnosed with AMI by CT.

CONCLUSION:

D-dimer levels were elevated in the AMI patients. Patients suspected of having AMI with unclear clinical results and patients with D-dimer levels above 1000 ng/ml and AF should undergo further evaluation.

• Authors: Burak Gün, Sadiye Yolcu, Vermi Değerli, Gökhan Elçin, Önder Tomruk, Bülent Erdur, İsmet Parlak
• Journal: Ulusal travma ve acil cerrahi dergisi = Turkish journal of trauma & emergency surgery : TJTES (Ulus Travma Acil Cerrahi Derg) Vol. 20 Issue 5 Pg. 376-81 (Sep 2014) ISSN: 1306-696X [Print] Turkey
• PMID: 25541851 (Publication Type: Evaluation Study, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Biomarkers
• Fibrin Fibrinogen Degradation Products
• fibrin fragment D

Topics

• Abdomen, Acute (etiology)
• Aged
• Aged, 80 and over
• Biomarkers (blood)
• Female
• Fibrin Fibrinogen Degradation Products (metabolism)
• Geriatric Assessment
• Health Services for the Aged
• Humans
• Male
• Mesenteric Ischemia (blood, complications, diagnosis, diagnostic imaging)
• Predictive Value of Tests
• Sensitivity and Specificity
• Tomography, X-Ray Computed