KenFL
10-13-2007, 02:15 PM
My 86 y/o mother went to the ER the other day after aggravating her existing 'very severe' spinal stenosis which limited her ability to walk.
Among the tests that were done were PRO BNP and D-DIMER. The PRO BNP result was 681.7(D) based on a reference range of 0-449. The D-DIMER was 0.78(A) with a reference range of <0.50 ug/ml.
In addition to her severe spinal stenosis she also has approximately 50 % reduced kidney function.
None of the ER personnel commented about these results and her primary care MD said that the elevated values are not significant given her chronic kidney disease, as it pertains to the probnp.
Being the skeptic that I am and ever vigilant regarding health care these days, particularly in view of the reluctance of many so-called health professionals to treat the elderly, I am just interested in finding out whether anyone is familiar with these tests and whether further follow-up would be advisable.
Thanks in advance for any information.
K.
Among the tests that were done were PRO BNP and D-DIMER. The PRO BNP result was 681.7(D) based on a reference range of 0-449. The D-DIMER was 0.78(A) with a reference range of <0.50 ug/ml.
In addition to her severe spinal stenosis she also has approximately 50 % reduced kidney function.
None of the ER personnel commented about these results and her primary care MD said that the elevated values are not significant given her chronic kidney disease, as it pertains to the probnp.
Being the skeptic that I am and ever vigilant regarding health care these days, particularly in view of the reluctance of many so-called health professionals to treat the elderly, I am just interested in finding out whether anyone is familiar with these tests and whether further follow-up would be advisable.
Thanks in advance for any information.
K.