Experimental test may quickly diagnose sepsis

(HealthDay)—A blood test that can quickly diagnose dangerous sepsis infections has been developed, according to research published in the Feb. 1 issue of Biosensors and Bioelectronics.

The experimental microelectrode device created by scientists at the University of Strathclyde in Scotland analyzes a patient's blood and provides results in as quickly as 2.5 minutes. The small device tests for interleukin-6, a biomarker of sepsis. Current testing methods for sepsis can take up to 72 hours, CNN reported.

"The implications for this are massive, and the ability to give the right antibiotic at the right time to the right patient is extraordinary," said study author Dr. David Alcorn, of the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley, Scotland, CNN reported.