Can biomarkers help identify sepsis in adults?

Sepsis is increasing in incidence in the United States and is one of the most common causes of death in hospitalized patients. Sepsis affects different biochemical and immunologic pathways and can present variably. Despite efforts to unify definitions of sepsis, increase awareness, and improve treatment, mortality remains high. Because of sepsis's complex pathophysiology, diagnosis can be challenging. No diagnostic test is sensitive or specific enough to diagnose sepsis in isolation. However, three biomarkers-lactate, C-reactive protein, and procalcitonin-in combination with other diagnostics may help clinicians diagnose sepsis earlier, leading to better patient outcomes.