Biomarkers of sepsis: Recent advancements

“Sepsis is a state caused by microbial invasion from a local infectious source into the bloodstream which leads to signs of systemic illness in remote organs,” this was the first scientific definition of sepsis proposed by Dr. Schottmuller in 1914. More than 170 different biomarkers have been assessed for potential use in sepsis, more for prognosis than for diagnosis. None have sufficient specificity or sensitivity to be routinely employed in clinical practice. The search for new biomarkers for assessing the severity of sepsis patients and predicting prognosis is very important, interesting, and challenging, providing new insights to confront sepsis. New biomarkers will revolutionize the manner in which sepsis is managed, in terms of early recognition, targeting and titration of therapy, and prognostication. Combinations of several biomarkers may be more effective than single biomarkers, but this requires further evaluation.