Value of total leucocyte count and C-reactive proteins in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis

ABSTRACT

To find out the predictive value of total leucocytes count and C-reactive proteins [CRP] in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Cross sectional study. Surgical unit 1, Department of Surgery, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center Karachi, from November 2006 to April 2007. A total of 50 patients attending emergency department with provisional diagnosis of acute appendicitis were included. All patients were evaluated by clinical features and their total leucocytes count and C-reactive protein levels were checked and compared with histopathological report which is gold standard for the diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Positive predictive value of total leucocyte count was 90.6% and negative predictive value was 44.4% with accuracy of diagnosis of 74%. Positive predictive value of C-reactive protein was 97.1% and negative predictive value was 62.5% with accuracy of diagnosis of 86%. The diagnosis of acute appendicitis can be made confidently with excellent history and proper examination. Total leucocyte count and C-reactive protein levels estimation can be helpful in the diagnosis of doubtful cases of right iliac fossa pain. When measured together it increases their diagnostic value