Receptor for advanced glycation endproducts in pediatric sepsis: a pilot study

Abstract

Background Sepsis in pediatric patients is still a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Aim The aim of the study was to determine whether the serum level of receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGEs) can be used as a potential diagnostic and prognostic marker in septic children. Patients and methods A pilot study was conducted on pediatric intensive care unit patients who had clinical evidence of sepsis over a 1-year period. Forty patients were enrolled in the study within the first 24 h after onset of sepsis; they were classified according to 28-day mortality into survivors and nonsurvivors. Complete blood count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, and soluble form of RAGE (sRAGE) were measured. Bacterial cultures from suitable body fluids were prepared. Results There was a significantly higher mean serum sRAGE level among septic patients compared with controls (P=0.001); the level was higher in nonsurvivors compared with survivors (P=0.001). A cutoff value of 1325 pg/ml for serum sRAGE showed a sensitivity of 89.2% and a specificity of 78.3%. There were positive correlations with C-reactive protein and Pediatric Risk of Mortality III, and no correlation with bacterial culture. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that sRAGE level and leukocytic count were significant markers in the diagnosis of sepsis (P=0.047 and 0.001, respectively). sRAGE level and Pediatric Risk of Mortality III score were significant parameters in sepsis prognosis (P=0.019 and 0.043, respectively). Conclusion Serum sRAGE can be used as a diagnostic and prognostic marker in pediatric sepsis, especially in those with a negative blood culture.