Summary

Utility of D-dimer level as an analytical marker in pediatric emergencies

Nso Roca AP, Riesco Riesco S, Benito Gutiérrez M, García Aparicio J

Affiliation of the authors

Servicio de Urgencias de Pediatría. Hospital Universitario Infantil “La Paz”. Madrid, España.

DOI

Quote

Nso Roca AP, Riesco Riesco S, Benito Gutiérrez M, García Aparicio J. Utility of D-dimer level as an analytical marker in pediatric emergencies. Emergencias. 2009;21:28-31

Summary

Objectives: To describe our experience using D-dimer levels in attending pediatric

emergencies.

Methods: For this retrospective descriptive study we reviewed all emergency patient

records in which D-dimer levels were measured in 2005 and 2006. We compiled

descriptive statistics and analyzed the association between levels of D-dimer and Creactive

protein (as a marker of inflammatory response) using a nonparametric

correlation test.

Results: Rash and fever were the main reasons for attending the emergency room. The

D-dimer level was elevated in 34.3% of the cases. D-dimer and C-reactive protein levels

were not correlated. The D-dimer level was elevated in 71% of the patients with sepsis.

Conclusions: D-dimer elevation is a nonspecific marker in certain inflammatory processes.

It is difficult to interpret, may lead to confusion, and should be read in a manner that is

consistent with the clinical context. Prospective studies are needed to provide evidence of

its utility as a marker in acute conditions in children.

 

More articles by the authors

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *