Tocilizumab Administration for Septic Shock

Measurement of serum IL-6 level and administration of tocilizumab were routinely suggested, but not mandatory, when severe sepsis/septic shock was suspected or diagnosed. Administration of tocilizumab for conditions other than rheumatoid arthritis or juvenile idiopathic arthritis and laboratory tests for IL-6 level were both not covered by National Health Insurance in Taiwan. The parents could make the decision to refuse one or both after discussing with the treated physicians. Therefore, blood samples were collected to test IL-6 level, and tocilizumab was administered only when we obtained informed consent for the self-pay agreement from the parents. Tocilizumab was administered intravenously as a single dose at 8 mg/kg for weight ≥ 30 kg or 12 mg/kg for weight < 30 kg.