This conceptual framework shows the interrelationships between infection, non-infectious disorders, SIRS, sepsis, and severe sepsis. Components of the process not discussed on the following slides include:

Infection: a microbial phenomenon characterized by an inflammatory response to the presence of microorganisms or the invasion of normally sterile host tissue by those organisms

Bacteremia: the presence of viable bacteria in the blood stream

Septic shock: sepsis-induced hypotension despite adequate fluid resuscitation along with the presence of perfusion abnormalities that may include, but are not limited to, lactic acidosis, oliguria, or an acute alteration in mental status

Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS): presence of altered organ function in an acutely ill patient such that homeostasis cannot be maintained without intervention

Inflammation and hemostasis are tightly linked. Therefore, although not shown on this slide, sepsis and severe sepsis lie on a background of disturbed hemostasis.

Bone RC, Balk RA, Cerra FB, et al. Definitions for sepsis and organ failure and guidelines for the use of innovative therapies in sepsis. Chest. 1992;101:1644-55.

Opal SM, Thijs L, Cavaillon JM, et al. Relationships between coagulation and inflammatory processes. Crit Care Med. 2000;28:S81-2.