sTREM-1 assessment as a diagnostic biomarker for suspected acute appendicitis in children

Abstract

Background The typical history of acute appendicitis is observed in less than 60% of cases. Therefore, searching for a surrogate marker is mandatory. Our goal was to determine whether the soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells (sTREM-1) is an efficient biomarker for acute appendicitis. Methods sTREM-1 serum levels were measured in addition to carrying out routine diagnostic tests (urine dipstick, complete blood count and C- reactive protein) in children admitted to the Emergency Department with suspected appendicitis. Statistical analysis was performed in order to examine whether sTREM-1 was a significant predictor of appendicitis. Results Fifty three of 134 children enrolled in the study were diagnosed with appendicitis. There was no significant difference in serum sTREM-1 levels (p=0.111) between children with or without appendicitis. Leukocytes, neutrophils and CRP were significantly elevated in the appendicitis group (p<0.001). The appendix diameter was significantly larger and the Alvarado score significantly higher in the appendicitis group (p<0.001). Conclusion serum sTREM-1 is not a good marker for acute appendicitis. Customary tests in addition to a proper patient history and physical examination are still the most effective methods to diagnose acute appendicitis.