Comparative study between red cell distribution width (RDW) and serum lactate as prognostic factors for severe sepsis and septic shock

Abstract

Incidence of sepsis is likely reflecting aging populations with more co-morbidities, greater recognition, Although the true incidence is unknown, conservative estimates indicate that sepsis is a leading cause of mortality and critical illness worldwide. The aim of our study is to evaluate the level of RDW and Lactate as markers in patients with sepsis and detect their levels on the outcome and resolution of septic shock in ICU. RDW is a measure of the variability in the size of circulating red blood cells and is a part of the complete blood count (CBC) panel. The serum arterial lactate concentration reflects the balance between net lactate production and net lactate consumption or clearance; Hyperlactatemia is typically present in shock states when oxygen consumption becomes critically dependent on oxygen delivery. This study conducted on 40 patients admitted to the intensive care unit of Damanhur Medical National Institute with signs and symptoms of sepsis. Patients will be classified into two groups: