The use of biomarkers testing in Emergency Department

Luka, Sonia; Golea, Adela; Tat, Raluca Mihaela; Lupan Mureșan, Eugenia Maria; Voicescu, George Teo; Vesa, Ștefan Cristian; Albu, Maria Adriana; Ionescu, Daniela

doi:10.2478/jccm-2024-0041

Abstract

Introduction

In the fast-paced environment of Emergency Departments (EDs), biomarkers are essential for the rapid diagnosis and management of critical conditions.

Aim of the study

This study evaluates the current clinical practice on key biomarkers in Romanian EDs, addressing the needs of emergency medicine physicians, and the challenges associated with biomarker testing.

Material and Methods

An online survey was sent to physicians working in ED to explore their perceptions, needs, and barriers regarding biomarkers, including Point-of-care (POC). Data was collected anonymously through an online platform and subsequently analyzed.

Results

This survey analyzed data from 168 completed responses, with 95.2% of respondents being specialists in emergency medicine. Procalcitonin and presepsin were most preferred for PoCT, while troponin and D-dimer were highly rated regardless of the testing method, reflecting their utility in sepsis and cardiovascular emergencies. Neuron-specific enolase, interleukin-6, and procalcitonin were the biomarkers considered needed.

Conclusions

The most frequently used biomarkers in ED were troponin, D-dimer, BNP/NT-proBNP, and procalcitonin. NSE, IL-6, and procalcitonin were the most recommended for future integration. High costs, limited availability, and false-positive concerns remain significant challenges in biomarker use.

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