UK Scientists Discover a Promising Biomarker for Early Sepsis Identification
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Synopsis
A UK research team has identified interleukin-6 (IL-6) as a promising biomarker for the early detection of sepsis in high-risk groups, particularly neonates, children, and pregnant women, potentially improving clinical outcomes.
Key Takeaways
- IL-6 serves as a powerful biomarker for early sepsis detection.
- Outperforms traditional biomarkers in identifying infection types.
- Can categorize sepsis severity effectively.
- Faster response compared to CRP and PCT.
- Could enhance decision-making for high-risk patients.
New Delhi, April 12 (NationPress) A group of researchers from the UK has uncovered the potential of interleukin-6 (IL-6) as a robust diagnostic biomarker for the early identification of sepsis among high-risk patient demographics, including neonates, children, and pregnant women.
Sepsis, a critical condition caused by the immune system's excessive response to infection, continues to be a primary global cause of death, resulting in an estimated 11 million fatalities each year.
Young children, particularly those under five years old, and pregnant women exhibit heightened vulnerability due to their immunological changes and increased risk of infection.
The research involved an analysis of serial blood samples from 252 patients (111 pediatric, 72 maternity, and 69 neonatal cases) suspected of having sepsis.
The findings indicated that IL-6 consistently surpassed traditional biomarkers in differentiating between bacterial and non-bacterial infections.
“IL-6 also efficiently classified sepsis severity, distinguishing among mild infections, sepsis, and septic shock, which is crucial for directing prompt and appropriate treatment,” the study revealed.
The research team elaborated on the significant benefits of IL-6 compared to conventional biomarkers.
“The secretion of IL-6 rises within one to two hours, peaks at six hours, and declines by 24 hours; in contrast, CRP and PCT peak much later at 48 and 24 hours, respectively. This quicker and more pronounced response positions IL-6 as a promising biomarker for earlier sepsis detection,” stated lead author Dr. Sean Whelan.
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a blood protein that signals inflammation, while PCT stands for Procalcitonin, a biomarker indicative of bacterial infections.
“Our results reinforce the potential of IL-6 as a valuable biomarker for sepsis diagnosis,” Whelan noted.
“With broader adoption and in conjunction with clinical evaluations, IL-6 could significantly enhance clinical decision-making and facilitate timely, targeted treatments for high-risk patients,” the expert added.
The study, presented at the annual Congress of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID Global 2025) in Austria, is the first to assess IL-6's diagnostic efficacy in a real-world cohort across all three patient populations.
