Laboratory parameters of the 1st order – obligatory laboratory tests.
- Small blood count [leukocytosis/increase in white blood cell count]
- Differential blood count
- Inflammatory parameters – CRP (C-reactive protein) or PCT (procalcitonin) [↑]
- Blood cultures – if there is evidence of a systemic inflammatory response.
Laboratory parameters 2nd order – depending on the results of the history, physical examination and obligatory laboratory parameters – for differential diagnostic clarification.
- Anti-DNAse B (streptococcal antibody).
- D-dimers – acute diagnosis of suspected fresh venous thrombosis (see also under “Physical examination” Wells score to determine clinical probability of venous thrombosis, DVT)[positive D-dimers are not specific for thrombosis or pulmonary embolism; however, negative D-dimers rule out thrombosis or pulmonary embolism with greater than 99%. Probability exclude]
- Renal parameters – urea, creatinine, possibly cystatin C or creatinine clearance – if there is evidence of a systemic inflammatory reaction or suspected deep-seated/necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTI).
- Creatine kinase (CK) – when there is evidence of a systemic inflammatory response or when a deep-seated/necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI) is suspected.
Warning signs of deep-seated/necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTI):
