SUMMARY

• Nervous system manifestations are often the first sign of organ failure to occur in sepsis.
• There are a wide range of clinical syndromes including confusion, seizures, and cerebrovascular events.
• The 2 most common are Sepsis associated encephalopathy and ICU acquired weakness.
• Current diagnostic and management strategies remain non-specific and supportive.

REVIEW

• Nervous system manifestations are often the first sign of organ failure to occur in sepsis.
• There are a wide range of clinical syndromes including confusion, seizures, and cerebrovascular events.
• The 2 most common are Sepsis associated encephalopathy and ICU acquired weakness.
• Current diagnostic and management strategies remain non-specific and supportive.

CONCLUSIONS

• Sepsis induced neurologic complications occur commonly.
• These conditions carry high mortality owing to its association with multiorgan failure.
• Without a specific treatment, aggressive treatment of infection and systemic effects are the most effective strategy to minimize morbidity and mortality.

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Erkan Hassan is the Co-Founder & Chief Clinical Officer of Sepsis Program Optimization where he designs & oversees the implementation of solutions to optimize sepsis programs.

To discuss your organization’s Barriers of Effective Sepsis Care, contact Erkan by phone (844) 4SEPSIS (844-473-7747), email (erkan@spo.icu), or video chat.