Sepsis

Sepsis is defined as life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. It occurs when an infection — bacterial, viral, or fungal — triggers a systemic immune response that harms the body's own tissues and organs. Septic shock is the most severe form — characterised by dangerous hypotension (low blood pressure) requiring vasopressors, with mortality exceeding 30–40%.

Sepsis can develop from any infection — pneumonia, urinary tract infection, skin infection, abdominal infection, or meningitis. Vulnerable populations include the very young, elderly, immunocompromised patients (cancer, HIV, immunosuppressive therapy), and those with chronic diseases. In Korea, hospital emergency departments and intensive care units (ICUs) manage sepsis according to the Surviving Sepsis Campaign international guidelines — the 'Sepsis Bundle' emphasising early antibiotic administration within 1 hour, blood cultures, IV fluids, and lactate measurement.

Recognising sepsis can be life-saving. Key warning signs (the 'Think Sepsis' mnemonic — SEPS): Slurred speech or confusion, Extreme shivering, Passing no urine in a day, Severe breathlessness, It feels like you're going to die, Skin mottled or discoloured. Any patient with a suspected infection and one or more of these features should be treated as a potential sepsis emergency — call 119 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.