Blood poisoning: What does it mean?
Blood poisoning: What does it mean?QuestionWhat does it mean when someone has "blood poisoning"? Answer"Blood poisoning" is not a medical term. As the term is usually used, it refers to the presence of bacteria in the blood (bacteremia) — and not a poisonous substance in the blood. So "blood poisoning" is really a misnomer. Bacteria may enter the blood through a wound or infection or during a medical or dental procedure or injection. Signs and symptoms of bacteremia may include:
A diagnosis of bacteremia is usually confirmed by a blood culture. Bacteremia is a serious illness that requires prompt medical attention. Treatment requires hospitalization and includes intravenous antibiotics. Without prompt treatment, bacteremia can quickly progress to severe sepsis, which is a life-threatening condition. RelatedLast Updated: 2010-01-22 © 1998-2012 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "Mayo Clinic Health Information," "Reliable information for a healthier life" and the triple-shield Mayo logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.
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