Abstract
Platelet counts, P&P, factor V and fibrin/fibrinogen degradation products (FDP) in serum were determined in 96 patients with 100 episodes of acute infections. The aim of the study was to evaluate the possible correlation between the tests, separately and in combination, and the outcome of the patients. The prognostic value was found to be dubious (0.05>P>0.01) as regards both a low platelet count and a decreased level of P&P and very low (P>0.2) as regards factor V. On the other hand, the demonstration of a raised S-FDP as well as the presence of more than one pathological test was of distinct prognostic value (P<0.001). It is concluded that coagulation tests are useful as supportive aids in the prognostic evaluation of patients with acute infectious diseases.