Volvulus laboratory findings

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1];Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Hadeel Maksoud M.D.[2]

Laboratory testing is carried out to rule out other causes of acute abdominal pain and to determine if bleeding is present. These tests may include, complete blood count, electrolytes and serum lactate levels.

• Complete blood count^[1]
  • To rule out anemia
• Electrolytes
  • Hypokalemia may occur, potassium is less than 3.5
• Pregnancy test
  • For all women of childbearing age to rule out gravid uterus as cause of volvulus.
• The following tests will be elevated in the case of hepatitis and/or pancreatitis:
  • Serum aminotransferases
  • Alkaline phosphatase
  • Bilirubin
  • Amylase
  • Lipase

Italicized laboratory tests are important in suspected bowel perforation, peritonitis and to rule out other causes of acute abdominal pain.

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