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Bacteraemia, also known as blood poisoning or sepsis, is a serious bacterial infection of the bloodstream. Bacteria that enter the bloodstream can travel throughout the body, causing inflammation and damage to organs and tissues.
Bacteraemia can be caused by a wide variety of bacteria, including those normally found on the skin or in the gastrointestinal tract. The infection can occur as a result of a primary infection elsewhere in the body, such as a urinary tract infection or pneumonia, or it can occur as a result of invasive medical procedures, such as surgery or the use of intravenous catheters.
Symptoms of bacteraemia can include fever, chills, rapid breathing and heart rate, low blood pressure, confusion, and organ dysfunction. In severe cases, the infection can lead to septic shock, a life-threatening condition that can cause multiple organ failure.
Diagnosis of bacteraemia typically involves blood tests to detect the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream, as well as imaging tests to evaluate the extent of the infection and any associated organ damage.
Treatment for bacteraemia usually involves prompt administration of antibiotics, which are selected based on the suspected bacterial species causing the infection. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary for supportive care, such as intravenous fluids and oxygen therapy, and monitoring for complications.
Prevention of bacteraemia involves maintaining good hygiene practices, such as hand-washing and proper wound care, and minimizing the use of invasive medical procedures unless medically necessary.