Copeptin Levels in Newborns with Sepsis and Asphyxia
Author Information
Author(s): Luregn J. Schlapbach, Stefanie Frey, Susanna Bigler, Manh-Nhi Chiem, Christoph Aebi, Mathias Nelle, Jean-Marc Nuoffer
Primary Institution: University of Bern
Hypothesis
Copeptin cord blood concentrations in neonates may be associated with different stress situations such as sepsis and perinatal asphyxia.
Conclusion
Copeptin concentrations were strongly related to factors associated with perinatal stress such as birth acidosis, asphyxia, and vaginal delivery, but are unsuitable for diagnosing early-onset sepsis.
Supporting Evidence
- Copeptin levels were significantly higher in neonates with asphyxia compared to controls.
- Copeptin concentrations correlated strongly with umbilical artery pH and base excess.
- A cut-off of 400 pmol/l for copeptin had a sensitivity of 92% and specificity of 82% for asphyxia.
Takeaway
This study found that copeptin levels in newborns can show how stressed they are, especially if they had trouble during birth, but it doesn't help to tell if they have an infection right after birth.
Methodology
Copeptin levels were measured in cord blood from neonates with early-onset sepsis, chorioamnionitis, and asphyxia, compared to a control group.
Potential Biases
Selection bias is unlikely as cord blood was routinely collected, but the small sample sizes limit the findings.
Limitations
The study included only neonates with available cord blood, and the sample sizes were relatively small.
Participant Demographics
Included neonates born between November 2004 and November 2007, with various gestational ages and conditions.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Confidence Interval
95%-CI 0.87-0.96
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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