Comparison of biomarkers adiponectin, leptin, C-reactive protein, S100A12, and the Acute Patient Physiologic and Laboratory Evaluation (APPLE) score as mortality predictors in critically ill dogs.

Based on the results of this study, there appears to be no benefit in using biomarkers over the APPLE score for disease severity stratification. Serum leptin concentration was significantly correlated with disease severity as determined by APPLE scoring. Longer duration of illness prior to admission was associated with a higher risk of death. APPLE scores were highest in dogs with infectious and immune-mediated diseases and bite wounds.