Septic shock is a life-threatening condition caused by infection. The spelling of "septic" is /ˈsɛptɪk/, where the initial "s" is pronounced as a voiceless alveolar fricative (similar to "ss"), the "e" is pronounced as a short vowel sound, the "p" is a voiceless bilabial plosive, and the "t" is a voiceless alveolar plosive. "Shock" is spelled /ʃɒk/, with the "sh" combination pronounced as a voiceless postalveolar fricative (similar to "shh") and the "o" is pronounced as a short vowel sound. Together, the two words denote a severe complication of infection that requires immediate medical attention.
Septic shock is a severe and life-threatening medical condition characterized by a systemic and overwhelming response to an infection that spreads throughout the body. It is an extreme form of sepsis, a condition caused by the body's response to an infection. Septic shock occurs when the body's response to infection triggers a cascade of events that causes widespread inflammation, triggering a decrease in blood pressure, organ dysfunction, and potentially, multiple organ failure.
The condition is primarily caused by bacteria, although other microorganisms, such as viruses or fungi, can also lead to septic shock. These infectious agents release toxins, which trigger a dysregulated immune response, causing inflammation throughout the body. This widespread inflammation damages blood vessels and impairs their ability to control blood pressure, leading to inadequate blood flow to vital organs.
Symptoms of septic shock include a sudden drop in blood pressure, rapid heart rate, fast and shallow breathing, and altered mental status. Other common signs may include fever, chills, reduced urine output, and clammy or cold skin.
Treatment for septic shock involves prompt identification and removal of the underlying infection, typically through the administration of intravenous antibiotics. Patients are often managed in an intensive care unit, provided with intravenous fluids to maintain blood pressure, and may require additional interventions such as vasopressor medications or mechanical ventilation to support organ function. Despite advances in medical care, septic shock remains a serious condition, and mortality rates can be high, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and treatment.
The word "septic" comes from the Latin "septicus", which means "putrefying" or "rotting". It originated from the Latin word "septum", meaning "a fence" or "enclosure". In medical contexts, "septic" refers to the presence of bacteria or their toxins in the body, leading to infection or inflammation.
The term "septic shock" combines the word "septic" with "shock", which comes from Old English "socc" or "scoc", meaning "a sudden violent blow or impact". In medical terminology, "shock" refers to a life-threatening condition where the body does not receive enough oxygenated blood to meet its needs, leading to a severe drop in blood pressure and organ failure.