Septic shock
Alternative names:
bacteremic shock; endotoxic shock; warm shock
Definition:
A serious, abnormal condition that occurs when blood flow
through the body is insufficient resulting in low
blood pressure and decreased
urine output. It is caused by an overwhelming infection.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Septic shock occurs more often in the very old and the very
young and in people with other underlying illnesses. Many
bacterial organisms can cause septic shock. Toxins
released by bacteria can cause tissue damage and interfere
with normal blood circulation.
The risk factors include underlying illnesses such as diabetes;
hematologic cancers; and diseases of the genitourinary system,
liver or biliary system,
and intestinal system. Other risk factors are recent infection,
prolonged antibiotic therapy, and a recent surgery or procedure.
The incidence is approximately
3 out of 1,000,000 people annually.
See also
Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
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