sepsis

[ sep-sis ]

noun

, Pathology.

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

   dental sepsis; wound sepsis.

sepsis

/ ˈsɛpsɪs /

noun

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

sepsis

/ 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 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of sepsis¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of sepsis¹

C19: via New Latin from Greek sēpsis a rotting; related to Greek sēpein to cause to decay

Example Sentences

The mother of an 18-year-old student from East Sussex who is facing a quadruple amputation after sepsis has described how he is "determined" to return to university.

From BBC

Black had sky-high levels of white blood cells and other signs of sepsis, an often life-threatening infection.

From Science Magazine

Klebsiella can cause urinary tract infections, pneumonia, skin infections in wounds, and sepsis.

From Science Daily

They had an exceptionally high number of bacterial infections in their lines, leading to life-threatening sepsis.

From BBC

King Crimson's management said it believed Sinfield had contracted sepsis and died in hospital.

From BBC