Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Puerperal sepsis
Serious postpartum infection causing systemic inflammatory response within 42 days of delivery.
Full Definition
A life-threatening postpartum complication occurring in 0.1-0.2% of deliveries, characterized by bacterial infection of the genital tract extending to cause systemic sepsis within 42 days of childbirth. Common causative organisms include group A streptococcus, E. coli, and anaerobes. Clinical presentation includes fever, tachycardia, altered mental status, and organ dysfunction requiring immediate broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy and supportive care.
Usage
Usage note: More severe than isolated endometritis; involves systemic septic response.
In Context
- "The patient developed puerperal sepsis with multiorgan dysfunction requiring ICU admission." — Critical care transfer note
- "Early recognition and treatment of puerperal sepsis is crucial for maternal survival." — Clinical guideline documentation
Also known as
postpartum sepsis
puerperal septicemia
Don't confuse with
postpartum endometritis
mastitis