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

The microbes can cause a constellation of symptoms in humans, from vomiting and diarrhea to sepsis, kidney failure and even death.

From Salon • Jun. 22, 2026

According to his death certificate, Busch died from hemorrhagic shock and disseminated intravascular coagulation after complications from bacterial pneumonia led to sepsis.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 5, 2026

The results from sepsis and kidney injury models suggest the effect may extend beyond one infection.

From Science Daily • Jun. 1, 2026

Nascar legend Kyle Busch died after a severe bout of pneumonia progressed into sepsis, Busch’s company said in a statement on Saturday.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 23, 2026

The doctor told my mother that if I had remained in Africa another day or two, the infection would have spread through my body, causing sepsis.

From "Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina" by Michaela DePrince