What does septicaemia mean?
Septicaemia is a medical condition characterized by the presence of bacteria or their toxins in the blood. It is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate treatment. Symptoms of septicaemia include high fever, rapid heart rate, and low blood pressure. If left untreated, septicaemia can lead to organ failure and death. The condition is typically diagnosed through blood tests and imaging studies. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and supportive care. Septicaemia is a term commonly used in medical and formal contexts, and it is often used interchangeably with 'sepsis'. However, 'septicaemia' is more commonly used in British English, while 'sepsis' is more commonly used in American English. Understanding the difference between these two terms is essential for accurate communication in medical and formal contexts.
nounA condition of blood poisoning caused by the presence of bacteria or their toxins in the blood.
- A condition of blood poisoning caused by the presence of bacteria or their toxins in the blood.
"The patient was diagnosed with septicaemia and required immediate antibiotic treatment."
"The patient was diagnosed with septicaemia and required immediate antibiotic treatment."
"The doctor suspected that the patient had septicaemia due to the high fever and rapid heart rate."
Used in formal or medical contexts to describe multiple cases of septicaemia.
"The hospital reported a high incidence of septicaemias among patients with compromised immune systems."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of septicaemia
The term 'septicaemia' is derived from the Greek words 'septikos', meaning 'putrid', and 'haima', meaning 'blood'. The term was first used in the 17th century to describe a condition of blood poisoning. Over time, the term has evolved to include a broader range of conditions characterized by the presence of bacteria or their toxins in the blood.
How septicaemia is actually used
Formal or medical contexts. Can be used interchangeably with 'sepsis', but 'septicaemia' is more commonly used in British English.