ABSTRACT
The idea that infectious etiologies underlie many complications related to illness and medical and surgical procedures is a relatively young area of interest and understanding in the medical profession. The incidence of sepsis is difficult to determine due to a lack of use of appropriate terminology as well as inaccurate reporting. Sepsis remains one of the most significant causes for medical morbidity and mortality worldwide. Septic shock has been shown to be associated with the same conditions, but in a slightly different order of frequency according to recent studies. Sepsis and septic shock, on the other hand, are exaggerations of the body’s natural response to infection. Pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators are upregulated, along with the natural immune response, but on a systemic scale, with effects far beyond the area in which it is needed. Initial diagnosis of septic shock and related conditions include a thorough history and physical examination, baseline laboratory tests, and blood cultures.
