sepsis

American  

[sep-sis] / ˈsɛp sɪs /

noun

Pathology.

1. local or generalized invasion of the body by pathogenic microorganisms or their toxins.

   dental sepsis; wound sepsis.

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sepsis British  

/ ˈsɛpsɪs /

noun

1. the presence of pus-forming bacteria in the body

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sepsis Scientific  

/ sĕp′sĭs /

1. A severe infection caused by pathogenic organisms, especially bacteria, in the blood or tissues. If untreated, a localized infection, as in the respiratory or urinary tracts, can lead to infection in the bloodstream and widespread inflammation, characterized initially by fever, chills, and other symptoms and later by septic shock.

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Etymology

Origin of sepsis

First recorded in 1855–60; from Greek sêpsis “decay”; compare sḗpein “to make rotten”

Example Sentences

In December 2025 Luxe said on social media her husband had been rushed to Warwick Hospital with organ failure, and later contracted neutropenic sepsis which can be a complication of chemotherapy.

From BBC

Chester has overcome a lot in his first 15 months, including sepsis, Covid and endocarditis, while his mum has also needed to perform life-saving CPR on him.

From BBC

A BBC investigation has found sepsis awareness training is still not mandatory at most hospitals in Wales, and Bethan's parents fear that what happened to their daughter could still happen to others.

From BBC

Researchers at Griffith University report encouraging progress toward treating sepsis after a Phase II clinical trial in China produced positive results.

From Science Daily

He died shortly after 19:00 on 3 October 2022, with his death recorded as brain injury caused by a lack of oxygen and sepsis.

From BBC