Bacteremia is a disease caused by the presence of bacteria in the blood. It can be spontaneous or occur after a procedure. The cause is usually a bacillus, which is a type of organism that normally lives in the gut. Some common bacterial strains are staphylococci, anaerobes, and gram-positive cocci.
A number of studies have suggested that patients with certain medical conditions may be more prone to bacteremia. For instance, those with a history of urological surgery are at higher risk. Others include those with weakened immune systems. In addition, those who have an indwelling device or artificial material (e.g., intravenous catheters, heart valves, prosthetic joints) are also at greater risk of developing bacteremia.
Another important factor to consider is the source of the bacteremia. Among the different sources, urinary tract infections are the most common. But, it can also happen after procedures such as dental surgery, insertion of tubes into the urinary tract, or translocation of bacteria from the colon. Also, the bacteria might collect on certain artificial materials, such as the heart valves, and be transferred to the bloodstream.
Bacteremia is often diagnosed by examining the blood, as well as performing a blood culture. Cultures are necessary to determine the specific organism that is causing the bacteremia. Once a diagnosis is made, antibiotics are given. Depending on the culture, the appropriate treatment plan can be determined. If a positive culture is obtained, the source of the bacteremia can be removed, or the antibiotics can be changed.
The symptoms of a bacteremia can vary depending on the organ affected. Some of the common signs and symptoms are fever, chills, shaking, altered sensorium, hypotension, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Other symptoms can be related to a more serious infection, including a heart valve infection, meningitis, and osteomyelitis.
Bacteremia can also lead to septic shock, which is a dangerous condition that occurs when the body reacts strongly to the infection. Septic shock is life-threatening. To avoid septic shock, it is important to diagnose bacteremia early and treat it with antimicrobial therapy. Patients with a diagnosis of bacteremia should receive immediate antimicrobial treatment, and antibiotic prophylaxis should be considered before undergoing certain surgical procedures.
Often, the onset of bacteremia symptoms is relatively sudden. Usually, the first sign is a fever. After this, the symptoms may include an abnormal discharge, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or a rapid heartbeat. Additional symptoms can develop, such as a distended abdomen or multiple intestinal perforations.
Bacteremia has been reported in both children and adults. However, it is important to note that the incidence is higher among the elderly. Urinary tract infections are the most common form of bacteremia in the older population. This is because of the age-related loss of sensitivity. Additionally, patients over the age of 85 years are more likely to present with atypical presentations during a septic episode.
Fungemia can be the most serious form of bacteremia, and it is also more likely to occur in patients with a lowered immune system. This form of bacteremia can cause non-healing wounds, brain fog, and infections of internal organs. Therefore, it is important to diagnose fungemia in patients with extensive skin burns or those with a lowered immune system.
