The correlation of the D-dimer test and biphasic computed tomography with mesenteric computed tomography angiography in the diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischemia

Abstract 

Background

Early diagnosis is the main factor to improve the outcome of acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI). The goal of this study was to assess the correlation of the D-dimer test and biphasic computed tomography (CT) with mesenteric CT angiography for the diagnosis of AMI.

Methods

Selected consecutive patients with a clinical suspicion of AMI were admitted to the study. Blood samples were taken before biphasic CT with mesenteric CT angiography examination.

Results

The sensitivity and specificity values of biphasic CT with mesenteric CT angiography were 92.9% and 89.5%, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of D-dimer testing for the diagnosis of AMI were 94.7% and 78.6%, respectively. D-dimer levels higher than 3.17 μg fibrinogen equivalent units/mL were more specific (P < .0001) and acted similarly to the biphasic CT with mesenteric CT angiography in the diagnosis of AMI.

Conclusions

In the setting of early diagnosis of AMI, the D-dimer test may improve our ability to diagnose patients in whom we cannot use multidetector row CT with CT angiography.

Keywords: Acute mesenteric ischemia, Biphasic computed tomography (CT) with mesenteric CT angiography, D-dimer