Septicemia

Definition

Septicemia is a serious bloodstream infection that occurs when bacteria enter the blood and spread throughout the body. It can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening immune response.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Septicemia often originates from infections in other parts of the body such as the lungs, urinary tract, or abdomen.
2. Common symptoms include fever, chills, rapid breathing, and an increased heart rate.
3. Gram-negative bacteria are a common cause of septicemia due to their endotoxins which can trigger severe immune responses.
4. Antibiotic resistance complicates treatment; prompt administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics is crucial.
5. Virulence factors like bacterial capsules and toxins significantly contribute to the pathogenicity of septicemia.

Review Questions

• What are common sources of infection that can lead to septicemia?
• Why is rapid treatment with antibiotics essential for septicemia?
• How do virulence factors contribute to the severity of septicemia?

Related terms

Sepsis:

A life-threatening condition caused by the body's response to an infection.

Bacteremia:

Presence of bacteria in the blood without necessarily causing widespread infection.

Endotoxin:

Toxic component found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria that can induce strong immune responses.