Sepsis – Summary Notes
1. Introduction
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by a dysregulated immune response to
infection, leading to organ dysfunction.
Key Points:
Can progress to septic shock if untreated
Early recognition and management are critical for survival
Major cause of ICU admissions and mortality
2. Causes / Risk Factors
Bacterial infections (most common: Gram-positive & Gram-negative)
, Fungal or viral infections
Risk Factors:
Elderly or immunocompromised
Chronic illnesses: Diabetes, CKD, liver disease
Recent surgery, invasive procedures, catheters
Hospital-acquired infections
3. Pathophysiology
Infection → immune system releases cytokines → systemic inflammation
Vasodilation → hypotension
Increased vascular permeability → tissue edema
Reduced perfusion → organ dysfunction and multi-organ failure
1. Introduction
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by a dysregulated immune response to
infection, leading to organ dysfunction.
Key Points:
Can progress to septic shock if untreated
Early recognition and management are critical for survival
Major cause of ICU admissions and mortality
2. Causes / Risk Factors
Bacterial infections (most common: Gram-positive & Gram-negative)
, Fungal or viral infections
Risk Factors:
Elderly or immunocompromised
Chronic illnesses: Diabetes, CKD, liver disease
Recent surgery, invasive procedures, catheters
Hospital-acquired infections
3. Pathophysiology
Infection → immune system releases cytokines → systemic inflammation
Vasodilation → hypotension
Increased vascular permeability → tissue edema
Reduced perfusion → organ dysfunction and multi-organ failure
