Emergency Department Applications of Inflammatory Markers: A Narrative Review

Abstract

AbstractThis is a narrative review of the role and applications of inflammatory markers in emergency departments, emphasizing their significance in rapid and accurate assessment of patients with urgent health concerns. The markers discussed include C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cell count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), procalcitonin, and serum amyloid A (SAA). Each of these markers has certain physiological roles. CRP serves as a crucial acute-phase reactant in response to inflammatory signals, while white blood cell count plays a vital role in immune response. ESR acts as a nonspecific marker of inflammation, with procalcitonin being elevated in bacterial infections, whereas SAA responds to inflammation and infection. These markers have several roles in the emergency departments. CRP plays a key role as an infection marker and is used in monitoring inflammatory conditions and tissue damage. White blood cell count is highlighted for its utility in evaluating various conditions, including infections, inflammations, autoimmune diseases, and sepsis. ESR is a diagnostic tool in emergency settings for assessing and monitoring inflammatory conditions. Procalcitonin's diagnostic specificity for bacterial infections is underscored, aiding in prompt and accurate diagnosis in emergency situations. SAA, as an acute-phase protein, has a role in inflammation and, infection responses, with applications in evaluating infections, monitoring inflammatory diseases, diagnosing and monitoring sepsis, and assessing other inflammation-related conditions. In conclusion, SAA has diverse applications in emergency departments, offering valuable insights into infection detection, monitoring chronic inflammatory diseases, diagnosing sepsis, evaluating inflammation-related conditions, and providing rapid insights in emergency scenarios. The importance of these inflammatory markers in enhancing diagnostic accuracy, guiding treatment decisions, and optimizing patient care in critical situations is emphasized throughout the review.