Diseases
septicemia
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
Septicemia, or sepsis, is the clinical name for blood poisoning by bacteria. It is the body's most extreme response to an infection. Sepsis that progresses to septic shock has a death rate as high as 50%, depending on the type of organism involved. Sepsis is a medical emergency and needs urgent medical treatment.
Symptoms
- change in mental status
- systolic blood pressure less than or equal to 100 millimeters of mercury (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
- bloodstream (bacteremia)
Risk factors
- older age
- infancy
- compromised immune system
Diagnosis
- blood tests
- imaging tests
- liver function tests
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is septicemia?
Septicemia, or sepsis, is the clinical name for blood poisoning by bacteria. It is the body's most extreme response to an infection. Sepsis that progresses to septic shock has a death rate as high as 50%, depending on the type of organism involved. Sepsis is a medical emergency and needs urgent medical treatment.
What are the symptoms of septicemia?
change in mental status, systolic blood pressure less than or equal to 100 millimeters of mercury (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 septicemia?
lungs, such as pneumonia; kidney, bladder and other parts of the urinary system; bloodstream (bacteremia)
Which medicines are used for septicemia?
noradrenaline, vancomycin
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