Correlation between D-dimer, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein in patients with tuberculosis

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global health challenge that requires reliable biomarkers for its diagnosis and monitoring. D-dimer, a fibrin degradation product, is elevated in various pathological states including inflammation. Emerging evidence suggests its involvement in TB-related inflammatory and vascular processes, alongside traditional markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between D-dimer levels and inflammatory markers in patients with TB and to assess its potential as a supportive biomarker. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study included eighty-five hospitalized patients divided into TB (n = 45) and non-TB (n = 40) groups. Patients with thromboembolism, coagulopathy, or liver disease were excluded from this study. Demographic data, BMI, and laboratory parameters were analyzed using statistical tests for group comparisons and correlations. Results: No significant gender distribution differences were observed between groups (P = 0.262). TB patients were significantly younger, had a lower BMI, and showed elevated ESR and D-dimer levels (P < 0.01). White blood cells (WBC) counts were also lower in TB patients (P = 0.013). No significant differences were noted in CRP levels. D-dimer levels were positively correlated with CRP (r = 0.395, P < 0.001) and ESR (r = 0.233, P = 0.034) and negatively correlated with BMI (r = –0.255, P = 0.019). Conclusion: D-dimer and ESR may serve as useful biomarkers for TB. Their combined evaluation with CRP level could help distinguish TB from other respiratory conditions.