Laboratory and Microbiological Considerations in Sepsis-Induced Cardiac Dysfunction

Area of Science:

• Critical Care Medicine
• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction (SICD) is a transient condition with unclear prevalence and prognosis.
• Characterizing laboratory and microbiological findings in SICD is crucial for understanding its impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify laboratory and microbiological factors associated with SICD in critically ill patients.
• To investigate the prevalence and prognostic implications of SICD.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective screening of intensive care unit patients with sepsis and positive cultures.
• Echocardiography within 24 hours of admission to assess left ventricular (LV) and biventricular systolic function.
• Exclusion of patients with confounding cardiac or systemic conditions; SICD defined by reversible dysfunction within 7-10 days.

Main Results:

• SICD was diagnosed in 14% of patients, associated with higher rates of septic shock and longer hospital stays.
• SICD patients exhibited elevated lactate and transaminase levels upon admission.
• Streptococcal infections and polymicrobial cultures were identified as significant risk factors for SICD.

Conclusions:

• SICD is linked to elevated lactate, inflammation, and cardiac biomarkers at admission.
• Specific microbial findings, including streptococcal infections and polymicrobial cultures, are associated with SICD.
• Further research is needed to clarify the prognostic role of SICD.