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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Sepsis and Septicemia?

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Sepsis and septicemia are related but distinct medical terms that refer to serious infections and the body's response to those infections. Here are the key differences between the two:

  • Septicemia: This occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream and cause blood poisoning. It is a serious bloodstream infection that can quickly become life-threatening and must be treated in a hospital. If left untreated, septicemia can progress to sepsis.
  • Sepsis: This is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body damages its own tissues and organs due to an immune response to an infection. Sepsis can lead to septic shock, organ failure, and even death if not diagnosed and treated early. It can be caused by various infections, including bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.

While the terms "sepsis" and "septicemia" are sometimes used interchangeably, they are not the same thing. Sepsis is a complication of septicemia, and the two conditions have distinct characteristics and prognoses.

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  • What is the Difference Between Sepsis and Septicemia?
  • Comparative Table: Sepsis vs Septicemia

    • Comparative Table: Sepsis vs Septicemia

    Here is a table comparing the differences between sepsis and septicemia:

    Feature Sepsis Septicemia
    Definition Sepsis is a serious complication of septicemia, causing inflammation throughout the body and potentially leading to organ failure. Septicemia is a serious bloodstream infection caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream from another part of the body.
    Occurrence Sepsis occurs when the body has a strong immune response to an infection, leading to widespread inflammation. Septicemia occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream from elsewhere in the body, such as the skin, lungs, kidneys, and bladder.
    Progression Sepsis can progress to severe sepsis if it leads to organ failure, such as kidney or heart failure. If left untreated, septicemia can progress to sepsis.
    Treatment Sepsis requires immediate medical attention and treatment in a hospital setting. Septicemia requires immediate medical attention and treatment in a hospital setting.
    Mortality Sepsis can be fatal, especially if it progresses to septic shock, which is characterized by extremely low blood pressure. Septicemia can be fatal if left untreated or if treatment is delayed for too long.

    While the terms sepsis and septicemia are sometimes used interchangeably, they are not the same. Sepsis is a serious complication of septicemia, and both conditions require immediate medical attention and treatment.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.