Sepsis

Sepsis is a time-dependent condition defined as life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection (1,2). Currently, one in three affected patients dies as a result of the condition (2).
For this reason, it is essential to recognize and identify its symptoms as early as possible. In most cases, sepsis presents with the typical signs and symptoms of infection, including fever and altered mental status.
To detect sepsis events as early as possible while ensuring an internationally standardized assessment, the most recent guidelines recommend the use of clinical scoring systems, such as quick SOFA (Sequential [Sepsis-related] Organ Failure Assessment) and the MEWS (Modified Early Warning Score) and NEWS (National Early Warning Score) scales (2).
In particular, a SOFA score greater than 2 has been associated with a mortality rate of approximately 10% (1).

References

[1] Singer M, Deutschman CS, Seymour CW, et al. The Third International Consensus Definitions for Sepsis and Septic Shock (Sepsis-3). JAMA. 2016;315(8):801-810. doi:10.1001/jama.2016.0287
[2] Evans L, Rhodes A, Alhazzani W, et al. Surviving Sepsis Campaign: International Guidelines for Management of Sepsis and Septic Shock 2021. Crit Care Med. 2021

For Further Readings

National and EU legislative references

ESICM (European Society of Intensive Care Medicine), Surviving Sespis Campaign 2024;
Society of Critical Care Medicine, 2021 Surving Sepsis Campaign Guidelines 2021;
Society of Crical Care Medicine, 2020 Surviving Sepsis Campaign International Guidelines for the Management of Septic Shock and Sepsis-Associated Organ Dysfunction in Children;
Rhodes A. et al. Critical Care Medicine Journal, March 2017 - Volume 45 - Issue 3, Surviving Sepsis Campaign: International Guidelines for Management of Sepsis and Septic Shock: 2016

[Last Update Genuary 2025]

Content and updates curated by Beatrice Meucci