The relationship between nonspecific inflammation markers and computerized tomography imaging in non-traumatic acute abdomen

Aims: The purpose of the study was to establish whether the patients presenting with abdominal pain should undergo to contrast enhanced CT (Computed tomography). For this purpose, we have investigated the possible relationship between CRP (C-reactive protein), WBC (White blood cell), neutrophil levels and the presence of pathological findings determined on abdominal pelvic CT images. Materials and methods: Patients who were admitted to Emergency Department between 01.01.2012 - 31.12.2012 with abdominal pain and underwent intravenous contrast-enhanced abdominal-pelvic CT scan were enrolled in this retrospective study. Results: Totally 130 patients were included in the study. A statistically significant correlation was found between the presence of pathological findings determined on abdominal-pelvic CT images and CRP, WBC and neutrophil levels. Pathological findings were found to be positive on CT images of patients with CRP > 0.8 mg / dl (78.33% sensitivity and 98% specificity), WBC > 12.91 x103/uL (sensitivity 48.3%, specificity 86%), neutrophils > 8.78 x103/uL (sensitivity 56.67%, specificity 86%). Conclusion: Abdominal-pelvic CT is a very useful diagnostic tool for determining the differential diagnosis of abdominal pain. CRP, WBC and neutrophil levels could be used for the determination of the need to contrast enhanced CT in patients with abdominal pain.