Diagnostic value of resistin and visfatin, in comparison with C-reactive protein, procalcitonin and interleukin-6 in neonatal sepsis

Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of resistin and visfatin in neonatal sepsis, and to compare these adipocytokines with C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin and interleukin 6 (IL-6). Donors and methods. A total of 62 term or near term infants with sepsis proven by positivity of blood culture, and 43 healthy infants were included in this study. Results. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups as regards birthweight and gestational age. White blood cell count (p = 0.039), CRP levels (p = 0.01), procalcitonin levels (p = 0.01), IL-6 levels (p = 0.01), visfatin levels (p = 0.01) and resistin levels (p = 0.01) were significantly higher in septic infants. There was a positive correlation between visfatin, resistin and other markers (WBC, CRP, procalcitonin and IL-6). A cut-off value of 10 ng/mL for visfatin, showed 92% sensitivity and 94% specificity, and a cut-off value of 8 ng/mL for resistin showed 93% sensitivity and 95% specificity for neonatal sepsis. Conclusion. In the light of these results, visfatin and resistin can be used as a diagnostic marker similar to CRP, procalcitonin and IL-6 in neonatal sepsis. Further studies are needed to better understand the role and predictive value of these molecules in neonatal sepsis.