To determine the significance of serum lactate clearance in predicting the likelihood of death and complications in neonatal sepsis

Abstract

Background: Neonatal sepsis remains a significant cause of mortality and morbidity in newborns worldwide, accounting for a substantial proportion of neonatal deaths, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Serum lactate is produced as an end product of anaerobic metabolism, and its accumulation reflects an imbalance between oxygen delivery and consumption, often due to impaired tissue perfusion and cellular hypoxia. Elevated serum lactate levels have been associated with increased mortality in various critical care settings, including adult and pediatrics sepsis.