Novel Diagnostic Test May Curb Unnecessary Antibiotic Use in Newborns
Chicago, IL – A groundbreaking diagnostic test analyzing umbilical cord blood may soon reduce the number of preterm infants exposed to unnecessary antibiotics. Scientists at the Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago have identified proteins in cord blood that signal acute systemic inflammation, indicating an immune response to infection and providing a means to diagnose early onset sepsis objectively and noninvasively.
Identifying Early-Onset Sepsis in Newborns
Early-onset sepsis,a life-threatening condition,occurs within the first 72 hours of life and is particularly prevalent in preterm infants. Often developing in utero, it is frequently triggered by intraamniotic infection, which can also lead to premature birth.The difficulty in definitively diagnosing early-onset sepsis through clinical signs often results in the governance of antibiotics while awaiting culture results.
Did you Know? Sepsis affects an estimated 49 million people worldwide each year [[2]].
According to recent data, approximately 78% of vrey low birth weight infants receive antibiotics after delivery. Alarmingly, about 25% of these infants continue to receive antibiotics even when culture results are negative, due to a presumption of sepsis.
The Role of Cord Blood Biomarkers
The innovative approach focuses on cord blood as a valuable source of data about a newborn’s health at delivery. “Cord blood is an excellent source of information on the state of the baby’s health at the time of delivery. Cord blood biomarker results can be available within 24 hours, allowing physicians to rule out early onset sepsis and discontinue antibiotics with more confidence,” explains Dr. Leena B. Mithal, lead author and pediatric infectious diseases specialist at Lurie Children’s Hospital.
Pro Tip: Biomarker analysis offers a rapid and objective assessment, reducing reliance on clinical judgment alone.
Dr. Mithal and her team have also developed a machine learning diagnostic algorithm based on cord blood biomarkers and risk factors for early-onset sepsis, an innovation that is currently patent pending.
Future directions and validation
The next crucial step involves validating these findings through multicenter studies and clinical trials.this validation process will ensure the reliability and effectiveness of the cord blood biomarker approach in accurately diagnosing early-onset sepsis and reducing unnecessary antibiotic use.
Impact on Antibiotic Use
Reducing the use of unnecessary antibiotics is crucial in neonatal care. Overexposure to antibiotics can lead to serious subsequent infections and disrupt the microbiome, which plays a vital role in immune system and metabolic function growth .
The Broader Context of sepsis
Sepsis, a life-threatening condition arising from the body’s extreme response to an infection, leads to tissue damage, organ failure, and potentially death if not promptly recognized and managed [[1, 3]]. Globally, sepsis is a major health concern, contributing to approximately 1 in 5 deaths worldwide [[2]].
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Infants Receiving Antibiotics After Delivery (Very Low Birth Weight) | 78% |
| Infants Continuing Antibiotics Despite Negative Cultures | 25% |
| Global Deaths Due to Sepsis Annually | 11 Million |
Evergreen Insights: Understanding Sepsis and neonatal Care
Sepsis remains a meaningful global health challenge, particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as newborns and individuals in low- and middle-income countries. Improving diagnostic tools and treatment strategies is essential to reduce mortality and long-term health complications associated with sepsis. The development of rapid and accurate diagnostic methods, like the cord blood biomarker test, represents a crucial step forward in neonatal care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Early-Onset Sepsis
This section addresses common questions regarding early-onset sepsis, its diagnosis, and the implications of antibiotic use in newborns.
What are your thoughts on the potential impact of this new diagnostic test? How can we further improve neonatal care to reduce the risk of sepsis?
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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