Cacaemia is a rarely used medical term that refers to the presence of fecal matter or bacteria derived from feces in the bloodstream. The term is derived from the combination of "caca," a colloquial term for feces, and the suffix "-emia," which refers to the blood. This condition is also known as fecal bacteremia.
The occurrence of cacaemia typically arises from a severe infection or perforation in the bowel, allowing the bacteria present in feces to enter the bloodstream. It is usually considered a medical emergency due to the potential complications it can cause. The bacteria present in the bloodstream can spread throughout the body, increasing the risk of sepsis, a life-threatening condition characterized by severe inflammation and organ dysfunction.
Symptoms of cacaemia may include fever, chills, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, altered mental status. Prompt medical attention is crucial to diagnose and treat cacaemia effectively. Treatment typically involves intravenous antibiotics to target the bacterial infection and, in severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address the underlying cause.
Overall, cacaemia is a medical term used to describe the presence of fecal matter or fecal bacteria in the bloodstream, often resulting from a severe infection or perforation in the bowel. Understanding its symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention is vital in order to prevent potential life-threatening complications.
