How a single drop of blood can detect sepsis

[Image from Janet Sinn-Hanlon/University of Illinois]

Sepsis can be identified by a single drop of blood, thanks to a lab-on-a-chip device from the University of Illinois.

Researchers at the University of Illinois and the Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, Ill., recently completed a clinical study of the device that provides a fast, point-of-care measurement of the body’s immune system response without having to process blood. The device is designed to help doctors diagnose sepsis at its onset, monitor infected patients and offer a prognosis.

Sepsis happens when immune chemicals released in the body to fight infection end up causing widespread inflammation, blood clots and leaky vessels. It can be caused by other medical conditions like infections in the lungs, urinary tract, skin, abdomen or other parts, according to the National Institute of General Medical Sciences. Invasive medical procedures contribute to sepsis by introducing bacteria into the blood stream.

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