engleski

D-dimer as a potential biomarker for CNS malignant infiltration

Several markers have been studied for their ability to make the central nervous system (CNS) infiltration diagnosis earlier and more precise. We investigated the measurement of D-dimer in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and evaluated them as a potential biomarker of neoplastic infiltration within the CNS. The study was performed on 87 CSF samples divided into three groups: patients with carcinoma (n=10) and different lymphoid malignancies (n=43) with clinical or biological evidence of CNS involvement, and controls (unsolved headache) (n=34). D-dimers were measured by VIDAS automated immunoassay system. Cell counts were performed by optical microscopy (Fuchs-Rosenthal chamber), and glucose, lactate and total proteins were determined by standard tests on Beckmann automated analyzer. Highly increased levels of D-dimers (mean=3.80 mg/L) were demonstrated in all CSF samples from patients with carcinoma, but in group of patients with lymphoid malignancies increased levels of D-dimer were found only in 32% CSF samples, andthe values were lower (mean=0.52 mg/L). In all control CSF samples, D-dimer values were <0.05 mg/L. Although this test is not specific for neoplastic affections, our preliminary data suggest that the measurement of D-dimers in CSF may be useful in the diagnosis of CNS involvement of neoplastic cells, especially in patient with carcinoma, and also in monitoring intrathecal therapy.

D-dimers; cerebrospinal fluid

DOI: 10.1515.CCLM.2011.511