Serum Laboratory Biomarkers to Estimate the Probability of Complicated Appendicitis: CRP and LDH

Abstract

Objective: Acute inflammation of the appendix is a very common finding in patients representing the emergency department. Here, we assessed the levels of the serum laboratory biomarkers in the patients with complicated (defined by the presence of perforation, abscess, or peritonitis) and simple appendicitis. Methodology: This observational study was conducted in Sina Hospital, Tabriz-Iran, between March 2019 and August 2019. Data regarding age, sex, body temperature, length of hospital stays, clinical signs and symptoms, and time of symptom onset for each patient. Laboratory values including white blood cells (WBC) count, neutrophil percentage, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRO), mean platelet volume (MPV), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were evaluated. Results: A total of 279 patients were enrolled in the study. 131 patients (46.9%) had complicated and 148 (53.0%) had simple appendicitis. Mean body temperature (P-value <0.05) and CRP levels (P-value <0.0001), were significantly higher in the complicated appendicitis group. (P-value >0.05). There were no significant differences regarding WBC, neutrophil, 1st and 2nd hour ESR, MPV, and LDH levels, and mean length of hospital stay (P-value>0.05). Conclusion: CRP concentrations are reliable markers showing an increased risk of developing complications in acute appendicitis patients.