Newer laboratory aids in the differential diagnosis of acute pericarditis: With particular emphasis upon the value of the fibrinogen polymerization test

Abstract

1. (1) The present report concerns itself with comparative studies of the fibrinogen polymerization test, and several acute phase reactants such as the CRP, ESR, and plasma fibrinogen concentration, and also the ASO titer. These were followed serially in patients with idiopathic, rheumatic and presumably tuberculous pericarditis and also in cases of atypical myocardial infarction. 2. (2) A consistently positive F.P. test indicated the presence, and mirrored the course, of rheumatic and idiopathic pericarditis, while it was negative in tuberculous pericarditis. Of the acute phase reactants only the ESR was abnormal to a comparable degree in all conditions studied. It seems, therefore, that the F.P. test can serve as a valuable aid in the diagnosis of idiopathic pericarditis. 3. (3) In contrast to all nonspecific acute phase reactants the F.P. test appears not to be suppressed by salicylates or steroid therapy but reflects the activity of the disease and thus provides a useful criterion for the efficacy of therapy. 4. (4) The F.P. test appears, furthermore, of value for the differential diagnosis between atypical myocardial infarction and acute non-specific pericarditis, particularly, when used concomitantly with the SGO-transaminase or serum aldolase tests.