Medical Terminology: SIRS and Sepsis

Sepsis and its Causes

• Sepsis can be triggered by infectious and non-infectious agents.
• Severe sepsis affects multiple body systems, not just the skin.
• Septic shock involves severe sepsis and low blood pressure (hypotension).
• Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) can occur independently of infections.
• Sepsis can be caused by various infections, not just bacterial infections.

Endotoxemia: Characteristics and Consequences

• Endotoxemia is characterized by the presence of endotoxins in the bloodstream, typically released by bacteria.
• Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an endotoxin produced by Gram-negative bacteria, is a primary contributor to fluid and electrolyte imbalances in the intestines.
• Increased vascular permeability in endotoxemia results in fluid leakage from blood vessels, leading to tissue swelling and reduced blood volume.
• Metabolic toxins contribute to toxemia by disrupting normal metabolic processes, leading to imbalances in blood sugar and other essential substances.

Clinical Manifestations of Endotoxemia and Septic Shock

• Acute endotoxemia is associated with fever, tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), and leukocytosis (increased white blood cell count).
• Severe endotoxemia is indicated by signs like hypotension (low blood pressure) and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
• Mild endotoxemia may present with elevated lactate levels in blood tests.
• Chronic toxemia is often characterized by weight loss and a weakened immune system.
• Septic shock commonly manifests with tachycardia, hypotension, and a decreased urine output.
• Treatment for septic shock may involve intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and medications to support blood pressure.
• Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in septic shock can cause excessive bleeding due to impaired blood clotting.

Stress, Starvation, and Septic Shock

• Stress can negatively impact animals, potentially contributing to the development of sepsis.
• Starvation, characterized by prolonged nutrient deficiency, weakens the immune system and increases susceptibility to infections.
• Hypothermia in septic shock can manifest as low body temperature, but shivering is not necessarily a symptom.
• Hyperorexia is a condition characterized by excessive hunger and increased food intake.