Diagnostic accuracy of blood tests of inflammation in paediatric appendicitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Possible childhood appendicitis is a common emergency presentation. The exact value of blood tests is debated. This study sought to determine the diagnostic accuracy of four blood tests (white cell count (WCC), neutrophil(count or percentage), C reactive protein (CRP) and/or procalcitonin) for childhood appendicitis.

Design

A systematic review and diagnostic meta-analysis. Data sources included MEDLINE, EMBASE, Central, Web of Science searched from inception-March 2022 with reference searching and authors contacted for missing/unclear data. Eligibility criteria was studies reporting the diagnostic accuracy of the four blood tests compared to the reference standard (histology or follow-up). Risk of bias was assessed (QUADAS-2), pooled sensitivity and specificity wer

SUBMITTER: Fawkner-Corbett D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9639107 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature