SEPSIS

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that arises when the body’s response to an infection injures its own tissues and organs. It can lead to shock, multiple organ failure, and death if not recognized early and treated promptly.

Below are some of the effects of sepsis on various organ systems:

Circulation: Sepsis can cause hypotension due to diffuse vasodilation. The dilation is intended to deliver more oxygen, but it can result in hypotension and hypoperfusion.

Lungs: Sepsis can cause endothelial injury which enhances microvascular permeability, leading to pulmonary edema.

Gastrointestinal Tract: The normal barrier function of the GI tract is depressed in sepsis, which can allow bacteria and toxins into the systemic circulation or lymphatic channels.

Liver: The liver normally can clear bacteria and bacteria-derived products, but liver dysfunction (e.g., cirrhosis, hepatitis) and the effects of sepsis can prevent this, spilling them into the circulation.

Kidneys: The combination of systemic hypotension with direct renal vasoconstriction can cause kidney failure.

Nervous System: Sepsis can cause complications in the nervous system sooner than in other organs, evident as an altered sensorium.