New blood marker may help spot deadliest sepsis cases

NCT ID NCT03682003

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at whether measuring hepcidin, a hormone that controls iron levels, in the blood of 114 patients with severe sepsis or septic shock could predict who would die within 28 days. Researchers also tracked deaths at 90 days and infections acquired in the hospital. The goal is to find a reliable biomarker to guide early, aggressive treatment for the sickest patients.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to
If successful, this could lead to a simple blood test that helps doctors quickly identify which sepsis patients are at highest risk, enabling earlier and more tailored treatment.
What could go wrong
This is a small, completed observational study, not a treatment trial. The findings may not be strong enough to change practice, and many other sepsis biomarkers have failed to prove useful in routine care.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Rennes University Hospital

    Rennes, France

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