Biomarkers in early-Onset Neonatal Sepsis: An Update

Globally, an estimated 500,000 newborns die each year from serious neonatal infections, which account for about 15% of all neonatal deaths. “Suspected sepsis” is one of the most common reasons for admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The challenge to the physician has always been trying to differentiate newborns with early onset sepsis from other non-infectious pathology whose clinical features overlap with sepsis. Current diagnosis of early onset sepsis is a combination of clinical presentation, non-specific biomarkers and blood culture. Traditional biomarkers such as complete blood count (CBC) and C-reactive protein (CRP) have poor sensitivity and positive predictive value. Current literature suggests the potential utilities of novel biomarkers such as cell surface markers (CD11B, CD64), genomics, proteomics and advanced molecular techniques in the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis. An ideal biomarker or a combination of biomarkers will help clinicians in the judicious use of antibiotics in early onset sepsis.