[Peak fibrinogen level as a prognostic indicator in acute biliary pancreatitis]

Early prediction of acute pancreatitis outcome is based on clinical classifications, but their complexity is limiting factor. The aim of this study was prospective, dynamic evaluation of plasma fibrinogen (Fb) concentration in acute pancreatitis and testing preselected, single Fb value as predictor of pancreatic and systemic complications. Serial measurement of Fb was done in 64 patients with acute biliary pancreatitis. Peak concentration of Fb was 5.93 +/- 1.08 g/L and was found 5-8 days following onset of the disease. The peak concentration differentiated patients with mild and complicated course of pancreatitis (5.68 +/- 1.00 g/L vs 6.31 +/- 1.10 g/L; p < 0.05), with the 67% sensitivity and 72% specificity. Similarly, Ranson's score distinguished mild from complicated form of pancreatitis (1.7 +/- 1.1 vs 2.6 +/- 1.3 points; p < 0.01), with the 58% sensitivity and 73% specificity. These data indicate that peak Fb concentration is useful as a single prognostic factor in acute biliary pancreatitis.