Sepsis is tested using a combination of clinical evaluation and various laboratory tests. There is no single definitive test for sepsis. Common tests include blood tests like complete blood count (CBC) to assess white blood cells, blood cultures to identify the infection pathogen, lactate levels to check for oxygen deprivation in tissues, C-reactive protein (CRP), and procalcitonin (PCT) which indicate bacterial infection and inflammation. Other tests examine organ function, clotting ability, and the presence of endotoxins. Clinical scoring systems such as the SOFA score are also used to assess organ dysfunction and severity. These tests together, combined with symptoms and physical examination, help confirm sepsis and inform treatment decisions.

Common Laboratory Tests for Sepsis

• Complete blood count (CBC) to check white blood cells
• Blood cultures to identify bacteria or fungi in the blood
• Lactate levels as an indicator of tissue oxygen deprivation
• C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) as biomarkers of inflammation and bacterial infection
• Tests for organ function such as liver and kidney function tests
• Coagulation tests including prothrombin time (PT), partial thromboplastin time (PTT), and platelet count

Additional Diagnostic Procedures

• Imaging tests (X-ray, ultrasound) to locate source of infection
• Clinical scoring systems like SOFA for organ dysfunction assessment
• Emerging host-response tests analyzing immune cell behavior for rapid diagnosis

Sepsis testing relies on a combination of laboratory tests and clinical judgment to promptly recognize and treat this life-threatening condition.