burn wound sepsis
Systemic infection originating from contaminated burn wounds, characterized by bacteremia and organ dysfunction.
Full Definition
Burn wound sepsis is a life-threatening complication that occurs when bacteria from infected burn wounds enter the systemic circulation, leading to sepsis and potentially septic shock. Large burn wounds provide an ideal environment for bacterial proliferation due to compromised skin barrier function, abundant necrotic tissue, and often immunocompromised patient status. Common causative organisms include Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Acinetobacter species. In burn surgery practice, preventing and managing burn wound sepsis requires aggressive wound care, appropriate antimicrobial therapy, and often surgical intervention including escharotomy or amputation in severe cases.
Usage
Usage note: Requires both positive blood cultures and clinical signs of sepsis.
In Context
- "The patient developed burn wound sepsis on post-injury day five, requiring broad-spectrum antibiotics." — infectious disease consultation
- "Burn wound sepsis remains a leading cause of mortality in major burn patients." — clinical research paper