What is the definition of sepsis?

Sepsis is defined as Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) in the presence of an infection. This definition underscores that sepsis occurs when an infection leads to a dysregulated host response characterized by systemic inflammation. SIRS criteria include symptoms such as fever, increased heart rate, increased respiratory rate, and abnormalities in white blood cell counts, which collectively indicate an overwhelming response by the body to an infectious process.

Understanding this definition is crucial in clinical practice because identifying sepsis early can lead to timely interventions that can significantly improve patient outcomes. Recognizing that sepsis is specifically tied to both systemic inflammation and an infectious source helps healthcare providers effectively differentiate it from other conditions that may present with similar clinical manifestations, such as simple infections or other inflammatory states without an infectious component. This distinction is vital for appropriate treatment strategies, including the initiation of antibiotics and supportive care measures.