The direct application of plasma droplet digital PCR in the ultra-early pathogen detection and warning during sepsis: Case reports

Abstract

Background: Sepsis is a severe and acute disease associated with high mortality, for those who survive, long-term morbidity. In-time detection of pathogen for proper and optimized treatment in the early stage of sepsis is crucial. Methods: We performed droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) on two cases of sepsis. The clinical information, laboratory test results, and the therapeutic regimen was detailed recorded. Results: ddPCR showed its clinical value of sepsis ultra-early diagnosis and the guidance of medication in both cases we provided. Conclusions: ddPCR has potential for rapid and precise diagnose in ultra-early stage of sepsis for its high sensitivity and short turn-around-time, thus benefiting in optimal and timely treatment of sepsis.

Keywords

• Droplet digital PCR
• Sepsis
• Ultra-early Diagnosis
• Medication guidance