Septic shock

Septic shock is the state of arterial hypotension induced by sepsis (serious infection of the body by an internal infectious focus through which bacteria pass into the blood) that persists despite appropriate treatment, and which causes organ failure and cell death due to this infection. The most common cause is a bacterial infection. It manifests as a multiple organ failure (arterial hypotension, high or low temperature, increased heart and respiratory rate, altered mental status, circulation disorder, etc.). Diagnosis is based on the medical history, a physical examination, laboratory tests, cultures and imaging tests. Treatment must be performed as soon as possible in an intensive care unit based on general supportive measures, antimicrobial measures, specific measures for the resolution of focuses or factors maintaining the infection and preventing progression of the symptoms.