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

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 I 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 mu g 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. (C) 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.