Antimicrobial treatment of sepsis.
BACKGROUND
Sepsis is a major cause of morbidity and death in hospitalized patients worldwide and one of the largest current challenges in critical care.


METHODS
Review of the pertinent English-language literature.


RESULTS
Treatment goals conventionally have included maintenance of systemic perfusion and eradication of sources of infection. Initial empiric antimicrobial regimen should be broad enough to cover all likely pathogens, as there is little margin for error in critically ill patients.


CONCLUSIONS
A multidisciplinary team, including the critical care physician, the microbiologist, the infectious disease specialist, the surgeon, and the clinical pharmacologist, is necessary for optimal patient outcome.
Grossi
Paolo
P
Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy. paolo.grossi@uninsubria
Gasperina
Daniela Dalla
DD
D000328:Adult; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002175:Candida / Q000187:drug effects; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006090:Gram-Negative Bacteria / Q000187:drug effects; D006095:Gram-Positive Cocci / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D018805:Sepsis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D000935:Antifungal Agents