Correlation between interleukin-6 and septic shock in children
Abstract: Sepsis is a
life-threatening condition and the most common cause of death in intensive care
units in developing countries, such as Indonesia. The first clinical signs of sepsis
are usually non-specific. More specific signs and laboratory parameters often
occur late and are associated with organ dysfunction and high mortality rates.
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a biomarker reported to be superior to clinical signs
and conventional tests for sepsis. IL-6 levels may indicate microorganism
invasion, as well as progression of infection into sepsis, severe sepsis, and
septic shock.
Objective To evaluate a correlation between interleukin (IL)-6 and septic
shock in children
Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in the pediatric
intensive care unit of Prof. Dr. R.D. Kandou Hospital, Mmanado, between June to
September 2011. Subjects were children with sepsis or septic shock aged 1 month
to 13 years, with diagnoses based on the International Pediatric Sepsis
Consensus Conference Criteria 2005. A one-time measurement of IL-6 plasma
levels was done at the time of diagnosis. Data was analyzed by logistic
regression test using SPSS version 17 software. A P value of <0.05 indicated
statistical significance.
Results The mean IL-6 plasma level in the septic group was 1.68 (95%CI
1.45 to 1.91) pg/ml and that of the septic shock group was 2.33 (95%CI 1.79 to
2.86) pg/mL. Our results showed a strong positive correlation between IL-6
plasma levels with the probability of septic shock in children with sepsis
(regression coefficient=1.310, P=0.024).
Conclusion Higher plasma IL-6 levels were associated with a higher risk
of septic shock in children with sepsis.
Author: Stephanie Yulianto,
Ari L. Runtunuwu, Vivekenanda Pateda, Jose M. Mandei, Julius H. Lolombulan
Journal Code: jpkedokterangg120136
