Introduction
This study investigates the potential link between elevated D-dimer levels and the development of mesenteric ischemia, a severe vascular condition. D-dimer, a fibrin degradation product, is typically elevated in the presence of clot formation and breakdown. Mesenteric ischemia, a life-threatening condition, occurs due to reduced blood flow to the intestines. This study explores how elevated D-dimer levels could indicate mesenteric ischemia, potentially serving as a valuable diagnostic tool. Through statistical analyses of clinical data, we seek to understand the relationship's nature and its implications for early detection and improved patient outcomes in mesenteric ischemia cases.
Aims & Methods
Our retrospective study, spanning 2009-2023, included all Mesenteric ischemic patients from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database. We collected data on comorbidities, Mesenteric ischemia, D dimer levels, Gender, race insurance, and socioeconomic factors using CPT and ICD codes. The first step involved descriptive analysis, examining the distribution of D-dimer levels and the prevalence of mesenteric ischemia cases. We conducted a Mann-Whitney U test, a non-parametric statistical test suitable for comparing medians between two independent groups. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was used to assess the strength and direction of the association between D-dimer levels and mesenteric ischemia. This test provided a measure of correlation, which was moderate and statistically significant in our dataset.
Results
A total of 7854 patients diagnosed with Mesenteric ischemia were included in the study. 4398 (54%) were female. The average age in the study is 58±7 years. The average BMI in the study group was 31± 10. Among the races, The Mann-Whitney U test (10.5 p<0.01) showed a higher D dimer level was associated with Mesenteric ischemia Similarly, the Spearman correlation coefficient of approximately 0.260 (p<0.05) demonstrates a moderate positive correlation between D-dimer levels and mesenteric ischemia, further supporting this association.
Conclusion
The results of our study reveal a noteworthy association between elevated D-dimer levels and mesenteric ischemia. The Mann-Whitney U test indicated significantly higher D-dimer levels in patients with mesenteric ischemia, reinforcing the potential of D-dimer as a marker for this condition. Furthermore, the Spearman correlation's moderate positive coefficient strengthens the evidence for this link. These findings suggest that monitoring D-dimer levels could aid in the early identification of mesenteric ischemia, potentially improving patient outcomes through timely intervention. However, the study highlights the need for cautious interpretation and consideration of other influencing factors in clinical settings
References
1. Zhang Z, Li GX, Wang XM, Wang D, Han KY, Xu D, Jiang T. [Early diagnosis and treatment of acute mesentric ischemia for 42 cases in single center]. Zhonghua Wai Ke Za Zhi. 2012 Dec;50(12):1068-71. Chinese. PMID: 23336481.
