Blood poisoning, also known as sepsis, is a severe inflammatory response of the entire body to an infection or a non-infectious cause. It is a life-threatening condition that must be recognized and treated as quickly as possible.
There are generally two causes of sepsis:
The most common infectious causes are:
Sepsis is a complex chain reaction affecting the entire body, which becomes increasingly difficult to control as it progresses. The dilation of blood vessels throughout the body leads to excessive blood flow to less important organs such as the skin, at the expense of vital organs such as the heart and kidneys. These organs are then no longer supplied with sufficient oxygen. The blood vessels also become more permeable, allowing blood plasma (the cell-free fluid component of blood) to leak into the tissue. This further reduces the volume of blood in the blood vessels. The blood also clots more quickly. This can lead to a complete depletion of clotting factors, known as consumptive coagulopathy (see article on blood clotting disorders). Inflammatory mediators (substances produced by the body that trigger and promote inflammation) and, above all, toxins produced by bacteria ultimately disrupt the function of the heart muscle. This further impairs the body's blood circulation. In severe sepsis, functional disorders occur, leading to organ failure in one or more organs. In the worst case, septic shock leads to circulatory failure.
The rather unspecific symptoms of blood poisoning are:
In dogs, the initial phase presents a reversed picture: the mucous membranes are reddened, capillary refill time is shortened, and heart/pulse rate and blood pressure are elevated.
In cases of sepsis, a quick diagnosis is vital. Your preliminary report may provide direct clues to the cause, such as a recent injury. During a general examination, the veterinarian will assess the vital signs in particular. He or she will also perform a complete blood test, including determination of organ parameters, electrolyte balance, and acid-base balance. Urine may also be examined. X-rays or ultrasound may be used to identify the source of the sepsis and any free fluid in the body cavities. Under ultrasound guidance, the veterinarian can use a thin needle to take a sample of this fluid for examination.
It is extremely important that sepsis is treated as quickly as possible. Stabilizing emergency treatment is carried out at the same time as the above-mentioned diagnostics. If your pet is experiencing respiratory distress, it will be given oxygen via a mask or nasal tube. A venous catheter will be inserted to administer fluids and, if necessary, electrolytes (minerals), glucose (sugar), and medications to stabilize circulation and relieve pain. The administration of an effective antibiotic within the first few hours is very important in the case of bacterial infections. Once your pet has been stabilized, the source of the infection will be treated surgically, depending on the cause.
If sepsis is suspected, seek immediate veterinary care at a nearby veterinary clinic. Severe sepsis requires round-the-clock intensive care, which can only be provided in animal hospitals.
Sepsis is an absolute emergency. If it is not recognized and treated early enough, the prognosis is very poor. If your animal can be stabilized and the cause treated, the prognosis is better.
Preventing or quickly treating infections and the non-infectious causes mentioned above reduces the risk of blood poisoning. Therefore, have your pet regularly vaccinated with all vaccinations recommended by the Standing Committee on Vaccination in Veterinary Medicine (StiKo Vet). Clean even minor wounds thoroughly and disinfect them immediately. This will prevent germs from entering the body. A healthy and balanced diet and avoiding stress also contribute to a strong immune system.
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