Sepsis is a serious condition that can become life-threatening, especially if not treated correctly and in a timely manner. The MeMed Bacterial vs. Viral Screen is a new test that allows differentiation between bacterial and viral infections in patients with suspected sepsis. Use of this test can help physicians determine if bacteria are the cause of the patient’s sepsis symptoms — requiring antibiotics — or if a viral infection is more likely, in which case antibiotics may not be needed. This test will be available in the emergency rooms at Premier hospitals and Free-Standing Emergency Departments starting August 18, 2025.
This test is an automated semi-quantitative immunoassay that measures three non-microbial proteins (TRAIL, IP-10, and CRP) produced by the patient’s immune system that allow differentiation between bacterial and viral infections. TRAIL (TNF-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand) is elevated in patients with viral infections, while IP-10 (Interferon Gamma-Induced Protein 10) and CRP (C-Reactive Protein) tend to be elevated in patients with bacterial infections. An algorithm uses the results of TRAIL, IP-10, and CRP to calculate a numerical score. High scores are indicative of bacterial infections, while low scores are indicative of viral infections or co-infection.
This test may be used in adult and pediatric patients and is intended for use in conjunction with clinical assessments and other laboratory findings. The MeMed Bacterial vs. Viral Screen is indicated for use in patients presenting to the emergency department with suspected acute bacterial or viral infection who have had symptoms for less than seven days.
Scoring Interpretation
- 0-10: High likelihood of viral infection
- 11-34: Moderate likelihood of viral infection
- 35-65: Equivocal
- 66-89: Moderate likelihood of bacterial infection
90-100: High likelihood of bacterial infection