Home > Medical Reference > Encyclopedia (English)Toggle: English / SpanishServices at Maryland GeneralA complete list of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services at MGH.Septic shock - OverviewAlternative NamesBacteremic shock; Endotoxic shock; Septicemic shock; Warm shock Definition of Septic shock:Septic shock is a serious condition that occurs when an overwhelming infection leads to life-threatening low blood pressure. See also: Causes, incidence, and risk factors:Septic shock occurs most often in the very old and the very young. It also occurs in people who have other illnesses. Any type of bacteria can cause septic shock. Fungi and (rarely) viruses may also cause the condition. Toxins released by the bacteria or fungi may cause tissue damage, and may lead to low blood pressure and poor organ function. Some researchers think that blood clots in small arteries cause the lack of blood flow and poor organ function. The body also produces a strong inflammatory response to the toxins. This inflammation may contribute to organ damage. Risk factors for septic shock include:
ReferencesVincent J, Septic Shock. In: Fink MP, Abraham E, Vincent J, Kochanek PM, eds. Textbook of Critical Care. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2005: chap 147. Jones AE, Kline JA. Shock. In: Marx, JA, ed. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2006: chap 4. Munford RS. Severe sepsis and septic shock. In: Fauci AS, Harrison TR, eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th ed. New York, NY: McGraw Hill; 2008:chap 265. Related ArticlesThe information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. |
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