Sepsis

/ˈsɛpsɪs/ noun

Definition

A life-threatening condition caused by the body's overwhelming response to infection, where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues and organs. It can lead to organ failure and death if untreated.

Etymology

From Greek 'sepsis' meaning 'putrefaction' or 'decay,' related to 'sepein' meaning 'to rot.' The term was used by Hippocrates to describe the process of wound infection and decay.

Kelly Says

Sepsis is like your immune system having a panic attack and accidentally attacking your own body while trying to fight infection! It's the ultimate friendly fire situation where your defense system becomes more dangerous than the original invader.

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