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septic shock

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septic shock

Life-threatening fall in blood pressure caused by blood poisoning (septicaemia). Toxins produced by bacteria infecting the blood induce a widespread dilation of the blood vessels throughout the body, and it is this that causes the patient's collapse (see shock). Septic shock can occur following bowel surgery, after a penetrating wound to the abdomen, or as a consequence of infection of the urinary tract. It is usually treated in an intensive care unit and has a high mortality rate.

Septic shock has a mortality rate of 35–45% even where the most advanced treatment is available. In 2001, it killed approximately 1,400 people per day worldwide.



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