Severe sepsis during pregnancy

Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2014 Dec;57(4):827-34. doi: 10.1097/GRF.0000000000000066.

Abstract

Severe sepsis is a major cause of mortality among critically ill patients. Early recognition accompanied by early initiation of broad-spectrum antibiotics with source control and fluid resuscitation improves outcomes. Hemodynamic resuscitation starts with fluid therapy followed by vasopressors if necessary. Cases refractory to first-line vasopressors (norepinephrine) will require second-line vasopressors (epinephrine or vasopressin) and low-dose steroid therapy. Resuscitation goals should include optimization of central venous oxygenation and serum lactate.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Epinephrine / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Fluid Therapy / methods*
  • Humans
  • Norepinephrine / therapeutic use
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / therapy*
  • Sepsis / therapy
  • Shock, Septic / therapy*
  • Vasoconstrictor Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Vasopressins / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Vasoconstrictor Agents
  • Vasopressins
  • Norepinephrine
  • Epinephrine