Evaluation of Various Diagnostic Markers for Early Detection of Neonatal Sepsis

Abstract

Background: Prompt diagnosis of neonatal sepsis at an early stage is essential to initiate therapy as well as to avoid unnecessary usage of antibiotics. Therefore the search for an ideal marker including antigenic expression on inflammatory cells is still continuing. The aim of the study was to identify an ideal early laboratory marker for diagnosis of neonatal sepsis. Methods: The samples sent for complete blood count were processed for Haematologic Scoring System (HSS) and flow cytometry for expression of CD64. The volume, conductivity and scatter of neutrophils and monocytes were retrieved from the analyzer. C Reactive protein (CRP) and culture reports were retrieved from Lab Information System. The samples were grouped as controls from normal babies, suspected sepsis with negative blood culture and proven sepsis with positive blood culture. Statistical analysis was done and compared among groups. A score of 3 and above HSS had sensitivity of 87% and specificity of 85%. Results: Mean fluorescent nCD64 at a cutoff of >105 can be considered as an ideal marker for early diagnosis of neonatal sepsis. It showed a higher sensitivity (97%) and higher specificity (>95%) for detecting neonatal sepsis. Conclusion: HSS and mean volume of neutrophils or a combination of mean scatter and conductivity of neutrophils may be utilized as markers when flow cytometry facility is not available.

Value of soluble urokinase type plasminogen Activator receptor as marker for neonatal sepsis or infection

“…al. (24), it was found that the commonly detected organisms were Staphylococcus aureus in 22.5% of the patients, Klebsiella in 18.6% and Acinetobacter (12.8%). From the variable results obtained from different studies, it is evident that the causative organisms of neonatal septicemia vary from nursery to nursery, between different geographical areas and in the same catchment area.…”