Watany MM, et al. - Researchers conducted a case-control study investigating the ability to use a panel of IL-31 (interleukin-31), interleukin-1beta (IL-1ß) and Nod Like Receptor Pyrins-3 (NLRP3) to distinguish sepsis from systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and to predict septic shock. One hundred forty nine participants were assessed for serum levels of IL-31, IL-1ß and NLRP3 using ELISA; 38 with sepsis, 51 with SIRS, 30 with septic shock and 30 healthy controls. Observations revealed low IL-31 and high IL-1β and NLRP3 in sepsis patients. Negative association of IL-31, while positive association of IL-1β and NLRP3, with sepsis severity was observed. Septic shock evolution can be predicted with IL-1β. Independent prognostic factors were IL-31, IL-1β and NLRP3. Observations revealed superiority of a panel of IL-31, IL-1β and NLRP3 to procalcitonin in sepsis diagnosis and prognosis.