Development of Diagnostic Criteria for Early Diagnosis of Gram-Positive and Gram-Negative Bacterial Sepsis: A Review

Bacterial sepsis remains a major driver of morbidity and significant mortality in developing regions, with sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Nigeria, bearing a disproportionate burden. Timely and accurate diagnosis of sepsis, coupled with precise differentiation between Gram-positive and Gram-negative etiologies, is critical for guiding appropriate antimicrobial therapy and improving prognosis. This review synthesizes the current landscape of sepsis diagnostics in Kano, Nigeria, examining the epidemiological context, utility, and limitations of existing diagnostic criteria. It also evaluates the potential of emerging technologies to address the unique challenges confronting prompt and accurate sepsis diagnosis in this resource-limited setting. We explored local bacterial profiles, the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance, and the practical application of clinical scoring systems and biomarkers. The review concludes by outlining a forward-looking strategy for developing and implementing more effective, accessible, and contextually appropriate diagnostic frameworks for sepsis in Kano and similar environments.