Sepsis Definition

Definitions for the terms of "SIRS", "sepsis", "severe sepsis" or "septic shock" have been proposed by the ACCP/SCCM Consensus Conference in 1992, and are now widely used.

SIRS and Sepsis Definition (ACCP/SCCM-criteria)

SIRS
(Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome)

2 or more of the following criteria:

  • Temperature > 38 °C or 36 °C
  • Heart rate > 90 beats/min
  • Respiratory rate > 20 breaths/min or PaCO 2 < 32 torr (< 4.3 kPa)
  • WBC > 12000 cells/mm 3, < 4000 cells/mm3, or > 10% immature (band) forms

Sepsis

Documented infection together with 2 or more SIRS criteria

Severe Sepsis

Sepsis associated with organ dysfunction, including, but not limited to, lactic acidosis, oliguria, hypoxemia, coagulation disorders, or an acute alteration in mental status

Septic Shock

Sepsis with hypotension, despite adequate fluid resuscitation, along with the presence of perfusion abnormalities. Patients who are on inotropic or vasopressor agents may not be hypotensive at the time when perfusion abnormalities are detected.