Pathology Testing for Patients With Low Back Pain in Australian Emergency Departments
Claudia Côté-Picard1,2, Qiuzhe Chen3, Hugo Massé-Alarie1,2
1Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration, CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.
Emergency Medicine Australasia : EMA
|April 13, 2026
Summary
Pathology testing for low back pain in emergency departments was analyzed. Results show testing was more common in older, female patients with urgent conditions, suggesting partial guideline adherence but needing further review for appropriateness.
Area of Science:
- Emergency Medicine
- Diagnostic Testing
- Low Back Pain Management
Background:
- Low back pain is a common reason for emergency department visits.
- Pathology testing practices for low back pain in emergency settings require characterization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To profile patients with low back pain who underwent pathology testing in emergency departments.
- To identify the types of pathology tests ordered for low back pain.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of electronic medical records from three Sydney emergency departments (Jan 2016 - Oct 2021).
- Inclusion criteria: patients discharged with a lumbar spine condition.
- Data extracted: demographics, episode of care characteristics, and pathology tests ordered.
Main Results:
- Pathology tests were ordered in 23.8% of 15,300 low back pain episodes.
- Testing was associated with older age, female sex, non-English language, ambulance arrival, urgent triage, serious pathology diagnosis, inpatient admission, and longer stay.
- Commonly ordered tests included full blood count, electrolytes, urea, creatinine (EUC), and liver function tests.
Conclusions:
- Patient profiles and ordered tests for low back pain in emergency departments were described.
- Guideline recommendations appear partially followed.
- Further investigation into the appropriateness and relevance of pathology testing is warranted.
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