Infections Of RBCs: Pt 1 Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is the definition of sepsis?
A life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection.
Which microbial components trigger Toll-like receptors (TLRs) during sepsis?
Components like lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Gram-negative bacteria, lipoteichoic acid from Gram-positive bacteria, and fungal mannans.
What is the role of TLRs in the pathogenesis of sepsis?
They detect microbial components and activate inflammatory pathways, leading to cytokine release.
What are the primary cytokines involved in the cytokine storm during sepsis?
TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6, and IFN-γ.
What clinical signs are indicative of sepsis?
Fever, chills, tachycardia, hypotension, altered mental status, and signs of organ dysfunction.
What is disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), and how is it linked to sepsis?
DIC is widespread clotting in small vessels, consuming clotting factors, and leading to bleeding; triggered by inflammatory mediators in sepsis.
How does hypotonic shock develop in sepsis?
Inflammatory mediators increase vascular permeability, causing fluid leakage and vasodilation, leading to a drop in blood pressure.
What is the most common cause of Gram-negative sepsis?
Escherichia coli, especially from urinary tract or gastrointestinal infections.
Which pathogen is commonly associated with neonatal sepsis?
Group B Streptococcus (GBS).
How does the spleen contribute to defense against bloodstream infections?
It filters blood and helps clear encapsulated bacteria via phagocytosis by splenic macrophages.
Why are asplenic patients at higher risk for sepsis?
They lack the spleen’s filtration of encapsulated organisms like Streptococcus pneumoniae, increasing risk for fulminant sepsis.
What is the mechanism of organ failure in sepsis?
Tissue hypoperfusion, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and microvascular thrombosis impair oxygen delivery and usage.
