Sepsis Detection Using Systolic Blood Pressure and Monocyte Distribution Width

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for detecting sepsis, such as SIRS and qSOFA criteria, lack sufficient sensitivity and specificity, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment, especially in patients who do not exhibit overt signs of inflammation.

Innovation Solution

Combining systolic blood pressure (SBP) measurements with parameters from a hematology analyzer, such as monocyte distribution width (MDW) and white blood cell count (WBC), to improve the predictive ability for sepsis detection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If SIRS or qSOFA criteria are used for sepsis detection, then the diagnostic process is simple and quick, but the sensitivity and specificity are insufficient leading to delayed diagnosis

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesepsis detection accuracyVSAvoiddiagnostic method complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple parameters (systolic blood pressure, monocyte distribution width, white blood cell count) into a unified diagnostic approach. This merging of parameters enhances detection accuracy by capturing multiple aspects of sepsis pathophysiology simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between simple criteria and accurate detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces new parameter thresholds and combinations (specifically SBP ≤100 mmHg, MDW ≥20.0 channels, and WBC ≤12.0×10³/µL) that differ from traditional SIRS/qSOFA criteria. These parameter changes enable more precise sepsis identification while maintaining a structured, clinically applicable framework.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If traditional vital signs alone are used, then the assessment is quick and easy, but the predictive accuracy for sepsis is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesepsis predictive accuracyVSAvoidnumber of parameters measured
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges traditional vital signs (systolic blood pressure) with hematology parameters (MDW, WBC) into an integrated diagnostic model. This combination leverages the strengths of both parameter types to achieve superior predictive accuracy without requiring an excessive number of measurements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a multi-functional diagnostic approach where the same parameter set (SBP, MDW, WBC) can identify various stages of sepsis and differentiate it from other conditions. This universal parameter set serves multiple diagnostic purposes, improving accuracy without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If biomarkers like PCT or CRP are used, then additional sepsis information can be obtained, but the cost increases and testing time is delayed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesepsis detection capabilityVSAvoidtime to diagnosis
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables preliminary sepsis identification using parameters (SBP, MDW, WBC) that are obtained during routine initial assessment and hematology testing. This preliminary action allows clinicians to identify at-risk patients before ordering specialized biomarkers like PCT, reducing the time to initial diagnosis and enabling earlier intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses readily available parameters (MDW, WBC, SBP) as intermediaries to indicate sepsis risk before definitive biomarker confirmation is obtained. These intermediary markers provide early warning signals that trigger further diagnostic workup, bridging the time gap between initial presentation and confirmed diagnosis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3997713B1Method of detecting sepsis using vital signs, including systolic blood pressure, hematology parameters, and combinations thereof
Publication Date: 2025.06.11 BECKMAN COULTER INC
  • EP3997713B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3997713B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3997713B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B

AI summary

Using vital sign measurements, such as systolic blood pressure (SBP), when combined with hematology parameters such as White Blood Cell Count (WBC) and Monocyte Distribution Width (MOW), has been identified as an improved method for detecting sepsis. The probability of having or developing sepsis is determined when each measurement is compared to a predetermined criteria and the combination of measurements that are within a reference range determines this probability.