Abstract
BackgroundAn adequate medical history combined with clinical examination is usually enough to make the diagnosis of acute appendicitis. The aim of this study was to determine the value of elevated white cell count (WCC), C-reactive protein (CRP), and bilirubin as diagnostic markers of acute appendicitis. MethodsA retrospective analysis was carried out on consecutive patients who underwent appendicectomy over a 3-year period. All data including patients' age, sex, blood test results, and appendix histology were summarized. Sensitivities, specificities, positive, and negative predictive values of WCC, CRP, and bilirubin were calculated separately or in combination for all patients. ResultsA total of 447 patients were included. There is a significant difference in the results between patients with negative and positive appendicitis with regards to CRP (32 vs 73; P < .001), mean total WCC (10.9 vs 14.0; P < .001), and the mean levels of bilirubin (10.9 vs 17.2; P < .001). ConclusionsThe diagnosis of appendicitis remains multifactorial and blood tests may help to guide the surgeon in the decision making.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
