Effectiveness of D-dimer, CRP, procalcitonin and white blood cell count in non-traumatic acute abdomen

Abstract

Aim: This prospective study investigates the effects of changes in leukocyte, CRP, D-dimer and procalcitonin levels during the treatment process of patients admitted to hospital with pre-diagnosis of non-traumatic acute abdominal pain on the decision about the treatment method. Material and Methods: Patients included in the study were divided into 3 groups: those who underwent surgical treatment within the first 24 hours (Group-1), those who underwent surgical treatment within 24-48 hours (Group-2), and those who were discharged without surgical treatment after at least 48 hours of follow-up (Group-3). At the end of the treatment process, the change in the levels of leukocytes, CRP, D-Dimer and PCT values were examined in each group. Results: A total of 141 patients (Group-1: 41 patients, Group -2: 33 patients and Group -3: 67 patients) were included in the study. The level of WBC tended to decrease in Group -3 patients (p=0.001). The level of CRP tended to increase in Group -2 patients (p=0.001) and decrease in Group -3 patients (p=0.067) compared to the levels at the time of admission. The level of PCT was lower in Group-3 patients from the time of admission (p=0.005). D-dimer level in Group-3 patients tended to decrease compared to the level at the time of admission (p=0.096). Discussion: Changes in these laboratory values add valuable information for clinicians and may prevent unnecessary surgical intervention in some patients.