Predicting and managing sepsis in burn patients: Current perspectives

Model System:

Burn

Reference Type:

Journal article

Accession No.:

J81091

Journal:

Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

2017 , 13, , 1107-1117

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Article reviews current perspectives in the diagnosis and treatment of sepsis and septic shock in burn patients. Modern burn care has led to unprecedented survival rates in burn patients whose injuries were fatal a few decades ago. Along with improved survival, new challenges have emerged in the management of burn patients. Infections top the list of the most common complication after burns, and sepsis is the leading cause of death in both adult and pediatric burn patients. The diagnosis and management of sepsis in burns is complex as a tremendous hypermetabolic response secondary to burn injury can be superimposed on systemic infection, leading to organ dysfunction. The management of a septic burn patient represents a challenging scenario that is commonly encountered by providers caring for burn patients despite preventive efforts. Despite significant research efforts, a biomarker with significant prognostic or diagnostic value has yet to be incorporated into routine clinical practice in burn patients. The combination of both clinical information and biomarker values continues to be the best option for early identification of septic patients. Optimal treatment of sepsis depends on early diagnosis and includes prompt administration of antimicrobials as well as management of hemodynamic alterations and other organ dysfunctions.

Author(s):