Procalcitonin and inflammatory markers in bacterial sepsis in preterm neonates from the León Becerra General Hospital period 2022-2023

Abstract

The present research project investigates the correlation between procalcitonin (PCT) and other inflammatory biomarkers in the diagnosis of bacterial sepsis in preterm neonates, given the global increase in sepsis and the need for early diagnoses to avoid delays in antimicrobial therapy. The research design is based on a retrospective descriptive cross-sectional study to evaluate the usefulness of procalcitonin and other inflammatory markers in the detection of bacterial sepsis in preterm neonates at the León Becerra General Hospital during the period 2022-2023. Statistical analysis revealed that 60% of female neonates and 40% of male neonates had procalcitonin levels between 10 ng/mL and higher, suggesting possible bacterial sepsis. Regarding the correlation between procalcitonin and CRP, a weak correlation of 0.151 and a moderate correlation of 0.315 was found with ESR in the first hour of life. However, in the second hour, the correlation decreased to 0.246. These results highlight the importance of considering both procalcitonin, CRP and ESR for a more accurate diagnosis of bacterial sepsis in preterm neonates. In conclusion, the results suggest a significant correlation between procalcitonin, CRP and ESR in neonates with bacterial sepsis, emphasizing the importance of multiple biomarkers for an accurate diagnosis.