In this article, we will discuss the Predisposing Factors/Conditions to Sepsis or Septic Shock. So, let’s get started.
Sepsis or systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS): In a patient with proven or suspected microbial infection, the presence of two of the following 4 symptoms and signs constitutes sepsis or SIRS.
- Oral temperature of >38°C or <36°C
- Respiratory rate >24/min or PaCO2 <32 mmHg
- Heart rate >90/min
- Leucocyte count >12000/μl or 4000/μl or >10% band forms.
Septic Shock: It is defined as sepsis with hypotension (SBP <90mmHg or fall of SBP >40mmHg below the patient’s normal BP) for at least one hour despite adequate fluid replacement, blood lactate level more than 2 mmol/L and need of vasopressors to maintain SBP >90 mmHg.
Predisposing Factors
- Immunocompromised state, e.g. Diabetes mellitus, AIDS, cytotoxic and steroid use
- Malignancies, e.g. leukemia, lymphoma
- Liver cirrhosis (portosystemic infection)
- Extensive burns
- Neutropenia
- Implants, prosthesis, IV drug abuse
- Antibiotic abuse
- Invasive procedures
- Malnutrition
- Rupture of hollow viscus