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Elevated serum bilirubin in acute appendicitis :a new diagnostic tool
1Department of surgery, Nepalgunj Medical College, Nepalgunj, Nepal. drsalamatkhan63@yahoo.co.uk
Kathmandu University Medical Journal (KUMJ)
|September 5, 2008
Summary
Elevated total serum bilirubin (TSB) is a valuable indicator for diagnosing acute appendicitis (AA). This finding aids in accurate diagnosis, potentially avoiding delays and complications like perforation.
Area of Science:
- Surgical diagnostics
- Gastroenterology
- Medical laboratory science
Background:
- Acute appendicitis (AA) is a common surgical emergency.
- Timely diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications such as gangrene, perforation, and peritonitis.
- Delayed diagnosis of AA can lead to severe patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the diagnostic utility of elevated total serum bilirubin (TSB) in acute appendicitis.
- To determine the predictive value of TSB levels in AA diagnosis.
- To assess the correlation between TSB levels and appendicitis severity.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 110 patients with suspected AA.
- Laboratory investigations including total serum bilirubin (TSB) and liver enzymes.
- Abdominal ultrasonography and emergency appendicectomy for confirmed cases.
Main Results:
- Elevated TSB was observed in 82.07% of AA cases.
- Higher TSB levels correlated with gangrenous or perforated appendicitis.
- TSB demonstrated 100% specificity and 82.07% sensitivity for AA diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Elevated TSB, even with normal liver enzymes, is a significant indicator for AA.
- Incorporating TSB into diagnostic protocols can improve AA accuracy.
- Utilizing TSB can help prevent unnecessary delays or premature appendicectomy.
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