Septic encephalopathy: diagnosis faces confusion

Abstract

Septic encephalopathy(SE) is defined as diffuse brain dysfunction that related to systemic inflammatory response and without clinical or laboratory evidence of central nervous system infection.SE is one of the most common complications of patients with severe sepsis.Its pathogenesis is very complex and is not yet clear.The clinical manifestations of SE varied and have no specificity, mainly for changes of consciousness and mental status.The performance of electroencephalography is more sensitive, and is associated with prognosis.Somatosensory evoked potentials could display the damage of cortical or subcortical pathways.Brain MRI has a more accurate assessment of the nature and the extent of brain damage.SE is a diagnosis of exclusion.Before the diagnosis of SE, we need to exclude other encephalitis and encephalopathy.The morbidity and mortality of SE are high.It requires close attention, early detection and timely treatment. Key words: Sepsis; Septic encephalopathy; Sepsis associated encephalopathy; Sepsis-induced brain dysfunction