Everyone is susceptible to bacterial infection to some degree, and the complications may not be serious if the infection is treated. However, sepsis is a condition during which the body cannot fight off such infections. Rather, the bacteria produces toxins that cause the body's immune system to overreact and attack its own tissues and organs. Sepsis can occur at any age, but it is especially prevalent in infants younger than 2 months whose immune systems are not fully developed. This infection can also occur in individuals whose immune systems are inhibited due to HIV infection.
Take inventory of any unusual symptoms and report them to the physician conducting the diagnosis.
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Obtain a blood test and get counts of red and white blood cells. This will reveal any bacteria that are in the blood.
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Collect urine using a sterile catheter for collection from an infant. The sample will be examined for the presence of bacteria.
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Test for meningitis by having a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) performed. The decision to perform this test may depend on the patient's age and appearance.
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Consider getting a chest X-ray. A CT scan is another imaging method used to detect sepsis.
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Check any tubes running into and out of the person's body. These tubes may be carrying bacterial infection.
Tips & Warnings
Bacterial infection is usually the cause of sepsis in newborns, especially if a baby has been in neonatal intensive care, or if the amniotic sac was prematurely ruptured before delivery. Other pregnancy complications, such as maternal fever or bleeding, can be precursors to sepsis.
Some cases of sepsis may be prevented. Go to KidsHealth to find out how (see Resources below).
Confirmed cases of sepsis are always treated in the hospital. This allows doctors to monitor the patient closely.
An infant suspected to have sepsis is usually started on antibiotics right away, even before a diagnosis is confirmed.
Beware of any infections that may be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy. A simple swab test before birth may detect any complications.
Sepsis must not be left untreated. Advanced sepsis can cause complications with a child's kidneys, lungs, hearing and brain.
Even if one does not suspect sepsis, know when to call the child's doctor. Babies who show no interest in feeding, a fever of 100.4 degrees F, lethargy, a racing heart rate or any out-of-the-ordinary behavior need immediate medical attention.
Testing methods involving needles carry their own risks. Needles can possibly expose the body to infection.
Sepsis, a severe illness involving infection and inflammation, can be caused by any toxin-producing bacteria. The body's response to an infection is...
Meningococcal sepsis is also called meningococcemia, which means that the bacteria has invaded the bloodstream. The organism that causes this life-threatening illness...
