Sepsis associated encephalopathy.

INTRODUCTION

Alteration of sensorium or an encephalopathy is a common diagnostic dilemma in critically ill patients and can be caused by a number of conditions. Sepsis associated encephalopathy (SAE) is now the most common encephalopathy encountered among intensive care unit (ICU) patients.

DEFINITIONS

SAE is an encephalopathy attributed primarily to sepsis or systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and has often been a diagnosis of exclusion.

CONCLUSION

It is important to recognize SAE for its therapeutic and prognostic aspects. SAE worsens morbidity and mortality among ICU patients. Most therapeutic options center around aggressive treatment of the underlying infection.