Low positive predictive value for widely available diagnostic testing methods (such as the white blood count [WBC] and C-reactive protein [CRP]) in this population, in conjunction with the increased risk of sepsis-related mortality once symptomatic [2], places significant diagnostic value on the clinical assessment and supports initiation of early empiric antimicrobials in at-risk or symptomatic preterm infants. The gene discussed is CRP; the disease is Sepsis.