Pathfast

Presepsin concentration was measured by PATHFAST® (Mitsubishi Chemical Medience Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) [14 (link)]. Threshold values were as follows: (a) 300 to 500 pg/ml: “systemic infection (sepsis) possible”; (b) 500 to 1000 pg/ml: “significant risk of systemic infection progression (severe sepsis), increased risk of unfavorable outcome”; and (c) ≥1000 pg/ml: “High risk of systemic infection progression (severe sepsis/septic shock). High risk for mortality after 30 day comparable with a SOFA score ≥ 8” [18 (link), 19 (link)].

Presepsin concentrations were measured using a compact automated immunoanalyzer, PATHFAST, based on a chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA) (Mitsubishi Chemical Medience Corp., Japan) [17 (link), 18 (link)]. Whole blood was collected using a conventional blood collection tube (TERUMO, Tokyo, Japan) with EDTA-2 K as an anticoagulant and used as a sample within 4 h after collection.

Blood samples were routinely collected for measuring markers, and there were no lack of data on ICU admission in this study. CRP levels were measured by CRP-LATEX (II) X2 “SEIKEN” (Denka Seiken Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan) using EDTA plasma as a sample. PCT levels were measured by the Elecsys BRAHMS PCT assay (Roche Diagnostics, Tokyo, Japan) using EDTA plasma as a sample. PSEP levels were measured using a compact-automated immunoanalyzer, PATHFAST, based on a chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA) (Mitsubishi Chemical Medience Corp., Japan). Platelet counts were measured in whole blood using an XT-1800i (Sysmex Co., Kobe, Japan). PT, APTT, AT, D-dimer, PIC, PC, and SF levels were measured in the plasma using a Coapresta 2000 (Sekisui Medicak, Tokyo, Japan). TAT, TM, and PAI-1 levels were measured using a STACIA (Mitsubishi Chemical Medience Corp., Tokyo, Japan). Total PAI-1 including active PAI-1 and tPA-PAI-1 complex was defined as PAI-1 in this study.