Utility of Point-Of-Care Urine Trypsinogen Dipstick Test for Diagnosing Acute Pancreatitis in An Emergency Unit

Abstract

Background: A point-of-care diagnostic test for acute pancreatitis could help in early triage and management of this condition. Materials & methods: Urine trypsinogen dipstick test (UTDT) was performed in consecutive cases suspected to have acute pancreatitis and diagnostic accuracy calculated. Results: Of 187 patients, 90 were have acute pancreatitis and UTDT was positive in 61 (67.7%). In the 97 non pancreatitis cases, UTDT was positive in nine (9.3%). The sensitivity and specificity of UTDT for acute pancreatitis was 67.8% and 90.7%, respectively. In patients presenting within 3 days of abdominal pain, sensitivity and specificity were 72.7% and 91.8%, respectively. Discussion: While offering the possibility of a point of care diagnosis, the low sensitivity of UTDT could be a concern with its routine use.

Point-of-Care Tests for Pancreatitis

“…23 These tests are also nonspecific because other conditions can also increase the levels of lipase or amylase, 24 including peptic ulcers, salivary adenitis, inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal obstruction, peritonitis, and acute kidney injury. 25 Contrast-enhanced CT scan is the most accurate method for diagnosing acute pancreatitis. 24,26 However, this modality is limited for routine screening due to its high costs, wait time for results, limited availability, exposure to ionizing radiation, and other potential adverse events.…”

“…25 Contrast-enhanced CT scan is the most accurate method for diagnosing acute pancreatitis. 24,26 However, this modality is limited for routine screening due to its high costs, wait time for results, limited availability, exposure to ionizing radiation, and other potential adverse events. 3,27 What Is the Evidence?…”