Pathogenesis of Sepsis Flashcards
Define sepsis.
Body’s overwhelming and life-threatening response to infection that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure and death.
Define septic shock.
Sepsis with persistent/refractory hypotension despite adequate fluid resuscitation.
What component of gram negative bacteria are involved in triggering shock?
Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) (it’s an endotoxin).
What component of gram positive bacteria are involved in triggering shock?
Lipoteichoic acid.
Name a gram negative bacteria.
E.coli. Pseudomonas. Haemophilus.
Name a gram positive bacteria.
Staph. aureus. Strep. pneumonia. Streptococci.
What is septicaemia?
Septicaemia is another term used to describe blood poisoning. It is an infection caused by large amounts of bacteria entering the bloodstream.
Name 3 common conditions associated with septicaemia and shock.
Severe UTI with pyelonephritis (inflammation of kidney). Meningococcal disease (blood poisoning). Gut perforation. Infection of intravenous catheters and devices. Endocarditis (inflammation of heart’s inner lining). Pneumonia.
Name 2 differential diagnoses in septic shock.
Burns/trauma/pancreatitis. Pulmonary embolism. Myocardial infarction.
Name 3 of the 6 interventions used in sepsis.
Administer high flow oxygen. Take blood cultures. Give broad spectrum antibiotics. Give intravenous fluid challenges. Measure serum lactate and haemoglobin. Measure accurately urine output.
What therapy is given to treat gut, renal or binary infections?
Co-amoxiclav.
What therapy is given to treat skin or soft tissue?
Flucloxacillin. Penicillin.
What therapy is given to treat pneumonia?
Co-amoxiclav. Doxycycline.
What therapy is given to treat meningococcal disease?
Penicillin.
What therapy is given to treat malaria?
Quinine.
