title: Critical abdominal sepsis.
abstract: Intra-abdominal sepsis is a heterogeneous condition which in its severe forms carries a high mortality. The systemic consequences of established major infection are the result of a complex pathophysiology whose mechanisms are imcompletely understood. It is clear that early appropriate therapy is vital in minimizing effects of intra-abdominal infection and to this end early recognition of sepsis is important. Clinical examination may be unhelpful in difficult cases and special investigations may aid diagnosis; a high index of suspicion is mandatory. Surgery is the mainstay of therapy but may be inadequate and supportive measures are an essential adjunct.
authors.forename: P N
authors.initials: PN
authors.lastname: Rogers
authors.forename: I H
authors.initials: IH
authors.lastname: Wright
authors.forename: I M
authors.initials: IM
authors.lastname: Ledingham
mesh_terms: D000208:Acute Disease; D001424:Bacterial Infections / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D010538:Peritonitis / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery