“Study Of Serum Iron Levels as A Prognostic Marker in Sepsis in Adults”

Abstract

Title : Study of serum iron levels as a prognostic marker in sepsis in adults - prospective cohort study Background: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition with high mortality rates among critically ill patients. Understanding the role of biomarkers, such as serum iron levels, in predicting the prognosis of sepsis can enhance patient management and outcomes. Objectives: The objectives of this study was to evaluate serum iron levels as a prognostic marker in adult patients with sepsis, assessing the relationship between S.iron profile (T-sat  and S.ferritin) and clinical outcomes, as well as their correlation with SOFA and APACHE II  scores. Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted at BMCRI. 90 Adult patients diagnosed with sepsis or septic shock were enrolled and their S.iron levels were measured. Additional parameters such as transferrin saturation and serum ferritin were also recorded. Clinical outcomes were tracked, and correlations with SOFA and APACHE II scores were analyzed. Results: Most patients are in the 51-60 years age range (21.3%), with males (55%) compared to females (45%). The most common organism isolated among the patients was A.baumanii (42.5%). The study found that S.iron levels were significantly lower in non-survivors (<50 mcg/L in 81.5% of patients, p=0.004) compared to survivors (>50 mcg/L in 53.8% of patients) of sepsis. Lower serum iron levels and T-sat, and higher ferritin were associated with higher SOFA and APACHE II scores, indicating more severe organ dysfunction and higher mortality risk. Conclusion: Serum iron levels can serve as a prognostic marker in sepsis, with lower levels indicating poorer outcomes. Monitoring serum iron and related parameters could aid in the early identification of high-risk patients and improve clinical decision-making.