Causes and Diagnosis of Sepsis

Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death if not treated promptly. But what causes sepsis, and how is it diagnosed? 

What Causes Sepsis?

Sepsis, also known as blood poisoning, is a condition resulting from the body's extreme and abnormal response to an infection. Normally, the immune system fights infections when they occur in the body. However, in some cases, it may stop fighting the infection and start damaging the body’s own tissues and organs, leading to widespread inflammation throughout the body. 

Sepsis does not occur due to the germs themselves but is instead a response to the chemicals the body releases when fighting an infection in a specific area. 

Bacteria are the most common cause of sepsis. Examples include Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. However, viral and fungal infections can also cause sepsis. Here is a list of common areas where infections can start:

• Digestive System: Such as hepatitis, gallbladder infections, appendicitis, peritonitis, or bowel problems.
• Respiratory System: Such as bacterial pneumonia.
• Urinary Tract and Kidneys: Especially upper urinary tract infections and pyelonephritis.
• Central Nervous System: Such as infections in the spinal cord or brain.
• Skin: Bacteria can enter through cuts and wounds, catheter insertion sites, or as a result of cellulitis.
• Other Areas: Such as the bloodstream and bones. 

Who is at Higher Risk of Sepsis?

Anyone can develop sepsis, but those with any type of infection are at a higher risk. Other high-risk groups include:

• Older adults, especially those over 65 years, newborns, infants, and pregnant women.
• People with medical conditions such as diabetes, obesity, cancer, and kidney disease.
• Patients staying in hospitals for any reason.
• Those with severe injuries like burns or large wounds.
• Individuals with weakened immune systems.
• Patients using catheters or breathing tubes. 

Is Sepsis Contagious?

Sepsis itself is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person. However, the infection that led to sepsis could be contagious. 

How is Sepsis Diagnosed?

Sepsis is a medical emergency and requires rapid diagnosis and immediate treatment. The doctor may order the following tests, along with a physical examination, to identify the underlying infection and confirm the diagnosis of sepsis:

• Blood Tests: To confirm the presence of infection, detect blood clotting problems, abnormal kidney and liver functions, electrolyte imbalances, and low oxygen levels.
• Other Tests: The doctor may also request urine tests, wound culture tests, or tests of mucus and saliva to identify the source of the infection.
• Imaging Tests: If the cause of the infection is unclear, further tests such as ultrasound and X-rays may be requested. 

Blazma provides all the tests your doctor may require to diagnose sepsis, including Complete blood count, Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, Urin anlysis, Urine culture, Kidney function test package, and Liver function test package.