Sepsis

Definition

Sepsis is a severe illness caused by overwhelming infection of the bloodstream by toxin-producing bacteria.

Alternative Names

Causes

Sepsis is caused by bacterial infection that can originate anywhere in the body. Common sites include the following:

• The kidneys (upper urinary tract infection)
• The liver or the gall bladder
• The bowel (usually seen with peritonitis)
• The skin (cellulitis)
• The lungs (bacterial pneumonia)

Meningitis may also be accompanied by sepsis. In children, sepsis may accompany infection of the bone (osteomyelitis). In hospitalized patients, common sites of infection include intravenous lines, surgical wounds, surgical drains, and sites of skin breakdown known as decubitus ulcers or bedsores.

The infection is often confirmed by a positive blood culture, though blood cultures may be negative in individuals who have been receiving antibiotics. In sepsis, blood pressure drops, resulting in shock. Major organs and systems, including the kidneys, liver, lungs, and central nervous system, stop functioning normally.

A change in mental status and hyperventilation may be the earliest signs of impending sepsis.

Sepsis is often life-threatening, especially in people with a weakened immune system or other medical illnesses.