Definition |
Sepsis is a severe human infectious disease that develops as a systemic inflammatory reaction when infectious agents or their toxins enter the bloodstream. |
Specialty |
Hematology and microbiology |
History |
The designation of the term “sepsis” comes from the Greek word meaning “putrefaction” or “decay,” and was first used by Homer over 2,700 years ago. N.I. Pirogov was the first to determine the significance of the primary focus of infection in the pathogenesis of wound sepsis, described in detail its general and local manifestations. He also classified sepsis and formulated the principles of its treatment that were advanced for its time. Finally, in 1914, Schottmüller for the first time proposed to associate sepsis with the host’s response to infection. |
Symptoms |
The clinical picture consists of symptoms of general intoxication and manifestations of the disease caused by infectious foci. Intoxication is manifested by severe weakness, loss of appetite, fever with chills, tachycardia, low blood pressure, and shortness of breath. |
Causes |
Any type of infection – bacterial, viral, or fungal – can lead to sepsis. However, the most likely options are: pneumonia, infections of the digestive system, kidneys, bladder, and other parts of the urinary system, as well as blood infection (bacteremia). |
Prevention |
Prevention of sepsis is based on the correct and timely treatment of local purulent processes, as well as compliance with aseptic conditions during home medical procedures, including injections. |
Diagnostic Method |
Diagnosis of sepsis is based on the clinical picture of the disease, the detection of pathogenic microorganisms in the blood, and the detection of septic foci in various organs and tissues. |
Treatment |
Treatment of sepsis is complex, including massive antibacterial or antifungal therapy, detoxification therapy. In some cases, transfusion of blood components, the use of renal replacement therapy, artificial nutrition, and artificial respiration may be required. |
Duration |
Sepsis is characterized by a rapid and severe progressive course, as well as the absence of a tendency to spontaneous recovery. The patient cannot recover without medical intervention, often this includes a general intensive treatment and surgery. |
Prognosis |
The prognosis for any form of sepsis is always serious. The sooner treatment is started, the higher the chance of a full recovery. The discharge of the patient from the hospital does not mean a complete cure. After discharge from the hospital, further observation is required at the place of residence, respect for health, and timely seeking medical help. |
Complications |
Sepsis can progress to septic shock, when certain changes occur in the circulatory system and body cells that interfere with the delivery of oxygen and other substances to the tissues. Septic shock is more likely to cause death than sepsis. |
Frequency in Population |
In 2017, an estimated 48,9 million incident cases of sepsis were recorded worldwide. |
Deaths |
11,0 million sepsis-related deaths were reported, representing 19,7% of all global deaths. |
Society |
There is not much knowledge about sepsis in general population besides referring to it as “blood poisoning”. Usually, sepsis is viewed as a possible consequence of improper open injury hygiene. |