Diseases
septicaemia
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the body's response to an infection damages its own tissues. When the infection-fighting processes turn on the body, they cause organs to function poorly and abnormally.
Symptoms
- change in mental status
- systolic blood pressure less than or equal to 100 mm hg
- respiratory rate higher than or equal to 22 breaths a minute
- high levels of lactic acid in your blood (serum lactate)
Causes
- lungs, such as pneumonia
- kidney, bladder and other parts of the urinary system
- digestive system
Risk factors
- older age
- infancy
- compromised immune system
Diagnosis
- blood tests
- imaging tests
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is septicaemia?
Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the body's response to an infection damages its own tissues. When the infection-fighting processes turn on the body, they cause organs to function poorly and abnormally.
What are the symptoms of septicaemia?
change in mental status, systolic blood pressure less than or equal to 100 mm hg, respiratory rate higher than or equal to 22 breaths a minute, high levels of lactic acid in your blood (serum lactate)
What causes septicaemia?
lungs, such as pneumonia; kidney, bladder and other parts of the urinary system; digestive system
Which medicines are used for septicaemia?
flucloxacillin
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