Abstract
Sepsis is defined as a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection and where underlying circulatory, cellular, and metabolic abnormalities contribute to a greater risk of mortality than that posed by sepsis alone this may be considered septic shock where circulatory support is needed in the face of a raised lactate level. The main pillars of therapy remain source control and appropriate timely antibiotics, resuscitation where needed and adequate source control. However in the setting of organ failure further support may be needed. Here we discuss the potential benefits from removal of pathogens using available extracorporeal techniques. Although randomised controlled trials supporting such an approach are remin elusive this is due to change in the next few years with current studies being performed.Sepsis is defined as a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection and where underlying circulatory, cellular, and metabolic abnormalities contribute to a greater risk of mortality than that posed by sepsis alone this may be considered septic shock where circulatory support is needed in the face of a raised lactate level. The main pillars of therapy remain source control and appropriate timely antibiotics, resuscitation where needed and adequate source control. However in the setting of organ failure further support may be needed. Here we discuss the potential benefits from removal of pathogens using available extracorporeal techniques. Although randomised controlled trials supporting such an approach are remin elusive this is due to change in the next few years with current studies being performed.