Diagnostic Value of 16S rRNA Gene by PCR for Rapid Laboratory Diagnosis of Sepsis in Children

Background: Sepsis in children is a common health problem. Rapid laboratory diagnosis improves its prognosis by adequate therapy.

Aim: The objectives of the present study were to compare the use of blood culture with detection of 16S rRNA by PCR for detection of bacterial pathogens in children with clinically suspected sepsis below the age of 5 years and to correlate the laboratory findings of 16S rRNA by PCR with the risk factors for sepsis in those patients.

Materials and Methods: The study included 100 consecutive children below 5 years who were suspected to have sepsis on clinical basis. Blood samples were obtained from each child for blood culture by Bact/alert system, CRP and16S rRNA gene PCR amplification.

Results: In the present study all positive blood cultures samples were positive by 16S rRNA PCR. However, there was one negative sample by blood culture that was positive by PCR. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of 16S rRNA PCR compared to blood culture were 100%, 95.5% and 99% respectively.

Conclusion: The present study highlights the advantages of 16S rRNA PCR for rapid laboratory diagnosis of sepsis in children compared to blood culture. The association of positive results with risk factors of sepsis may be used as a guide for in rapid diagnosis in high risk patients.