Biomarkers for sepsis and resulting mortality can be detected by assaying blood samples. Changes in the concentration of the biomarkers can be used to indicate sepsis, risk of sepsis, progression of sepsis, remission from sepsis, and risk of mortality. Changes can be evaluated relative to data sets, natural or synthetic or semisynthetic control samples, or patient samples collected at different time points. Some biomarkers' concentrations are elevated during disease and some are depressed. These are termed informative biomarkers. Some biomarkers are diagnostic in combination with others. Individual biomarkers may be weighted when used in combinations. Biomarkers can be assessed in individual, isolated or assays, in parallel assays, or in single-pot assays.