Troponin I as a prognostic marker for outcomes in septic patients admitted to the ICU: Evidence from a government medical college of Madhya Pradesh, India.

Sepsis remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among critically ill patients, with early identification of high-risk individuals being vital for improving outcomes. Cardiac troponin I, a biomarker of myocardial injury, is often elevated in sepsis and may serve as an indicator of systemic inflammation and cardiovascular stress. Hence, this prospective observational study conducted from December 2024 to January 2026 at District Hospital Chhindwara, India, included 170 adult sepsis patients admitted to the ICU. Troponin I levels within 24 hours of admission were measured and analyzed against clinical variables including SOFA score; mechanical ventilation, vasopressor use and length of ICU stay. Elevated troponin was detected in 67.6% of patients and was significantly associated with higher mortality (38.3% vs. 9.1%, p < 0.001) and greater need for organ support; logistic regression confirmed troponin as an independent mortality predictor (adjusted OR = 5.12, 95% CI 1.65-15.9, p = 0.004). Thus, we show troponin I as a valuable prognostic marker in sepsis, supporting its early measurement for risk stratification and targeted management.