Definitions and Diagnosis

Our research focuses on optimizing sepsis definitions and improving diagnostic accuracy to ensure timely care for patients who need it while minimizing unnecessary antibiotic use in those with sepsis-mimicking conditions. Our faculty have:

• Highlighted the subjectivity and challenges in diagnosing sepsis
• Quantified the frequency of empiric antibiotic treatment for sepsis that is unnecessary in retrospect  
• Elucidated the heterogeneity in sepsis presentations and outcomes
• Identified limitations in existing sepsis definitions and screening tools
• Investigated the role and limitations of procalcitonin and other biomarkers in improving sepsis diagnosis, management, and outcomes