[Serum D-dimer changes and prognostic implication in acute pancreatitis].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the role of D-dimer in human acute pancreatitis (AP) and its relation to the severity of the disease. METHODS: Plasma concentration of D-dimer was measured in 31 patients with mild AP (MAP), 30 patients with severe AP (SAP) and 30 normal people as a control group. The results of routine laboratory tests, 48-hour Ranson and 24-hour APACHE II scores were all recorded. We attempted to find a relationship between D-dimer level and the results of routine laboratory tests, 48-hour Ranson scores and 24-hour APACHE II scores. RESULTS: (1) As compared with the control group, the plasma concentration of D-dimer was much higher in MAP (0.21 +/- 0.21) mg/L (P = 0.029) and SAP patients (0.69 +/- 0.32) mg/L (P = 0.000). The D-dimer level in the SAP group was higher than that in the MAP group (P = 0.000). (2) The rise in the D-dimer level was directly related to 48-hour Ranson (P = 0.000) and 24-hour APACHE II scores (P = 0.000). (3) The rise in the D-dimer level was directly related to leukocyte count, blood glucose, creatinine, prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin time (P < 0.05) and inversely related to hematocrit, albumin and calcium (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Plasma concentration of the D-dimer rises in AP patients; D-dimer level is related to the disease severity.