Third, we used a validated EHR algorithm rather than phecodes to define sepsis; nevertheless, the replication analysis using phecodes was consistent with the primary analysis—APOL1 high-risk genotypes were associated with sepsis-related phecodes; however, these associations were driven by those patients with pre-existing severe renal disease, a known consequence of APOL1 high-risk genotypes. This evidence concerns the gene APOL1 and kidney disorder.