What is sepsis?

Dec 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Li Feng

Introduction

Sepsis is an acute systemic infection caused by pathogenic bacteria entering the bloodstream, multiplying, and releasing toxins. If not promptly treated, it can cause severe damage to the body. Preventing sepsis requires attention to daily protection, maintaining the integrity of skin and mucous membranes, and timely management of localized infections. For individuals with wounds or undergoing invasive procedures, strict adherence to aseptic principles is essential.

Sepsis usually refers to septicemia. Septicemia is an acute systemic infection caused by pathogenic bacteria entering the bloodstream, multiplying rapidly, and releasing toxins. If not promptly treated, it can cause severe damage to the body.

Septicemia often occurs in individuals with weakened immune systems. Breaks in the skin or mucous membranes and localized infection sites may serve as entry points for pathogens. Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria multiply extensively and release toxins, leading to symptoms such as chills, high fever, fatigue, and rapid breathing. It may also impair the normal function of multiple organs, causing liver and kidney damage or abnormal blood clotting. Clinical diagnosis relies on tests such as complete blood count and blood cultures. Treatment primarily involves adequate doses and duration of sensitive antibiotics, along with active management of the primary infection source.

To prevent septicemia, it's important to maintain daily protective measures, keep skin and mucous membranes intact, and promptly treat any local infections. For individuals with wounds or undergoing invasive procedures, strict adherence to aseptic techniques is essential to reduce the risk of infection.

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What are the differences between sepsis and leukemia?

Sepsis generally refers to septicemia. The core differences between sepsis and leukemia lie in their distinct causes and mechanisms, affected sites, symptom manifestations, diagnostic methods, and susceptible populations. Both conditions can be life-threatening. If persistent fever, fatigue, bleeding, or similar symptoms occur, immediate medical attention at a正规 hospital is necessary. 1. Different causes and mechanisms

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What are the symptoms of late-stage sepsis?

In general, during the late stage of sepsis, multiple organ functions are severely impaired and the condition is critical. Main symptoms include septic shock, difficulty breathing, altered mental status, skin petechiae or bleeding, and multi-organ dysfunction. Patients with advanced sepsis require immediate intensive care, where comprehensive treatments such as aggressive anti-infective therapy and fluid resuscitation are used for life-saving interventions. Vital signs must be closely monitored throughout treatment.

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How long can a person survive with sepsis?

If sepsis is in its early stage, with mild symptoms and no multi-organ dysfunction, timely implementation of standard interventions such as anti-infective treatment and fluid resuscitation enables most patients to control the condition and gradually recover within a few weeks, resulting in minimal impact on overall life expectancy. The key in such cases is early recognition of symptoms and prompt initiation of treatment to prevent disease progression.

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What is bacteremia, is it serious, and can it be cured?

Bacteremia is a systemic infectious disease caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream. It is a serious condition, and if not treated promptly, it can lead to sepsis, multiple organ damage, or even death. However, most patients can be cured with proper treatment. Immediate medical attention is required upon symptoms such as fever, chills, and rapid breathing. The disease results from bacteria released into the blood from a localized infection site and immune