sepsis
Pronunciation: SEP-sis
A life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection.
Full Definition
Sepsis is a major concern in surgical critical care, defined as life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. The current definition (Sepsis-3) requires evidence of infection plus an increase in Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score of 2 points or more. Septic shock is defined as sepsis with persistent hypotension requiring vasopressors to maintain mean arterial pressure ≥65 mmHg and lactate >2 mmol/L despite adequate volume resuscitation. In surgical patients, sepsis often originates from surgical site infections, anastomotic leaks, or nosocomial infections. Early recognition and prompt treatment with antibiotics, source control, and supportive care are crucial for survival.
Usage
Usage note: Avoid outdated terms like 'septicemia' or 'blood poisoning' in formal medical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient developed sepsis secondary to anastomotic leak on post-operative day 5." — Complication report
- "Sepsis bundle protocols were initiated within one hour of recognition." — Quality improvement documentation