Bacteraemia - Symptom, Treatment and cause of Bacteraemia

Bacteraemia Description

Very common low grade bacterial infection of blood. More severe infections are termed septicaemia.

Bacteraemia Cause

May be associated with other serious illnesses such as leukaemia, cancer and AIDS. Most spread from urinary, intestinal, lung or gall bladder infections. Many are very low grade and persistent. Almost any type of bacteria may be responsible.

Bacteraemia Symptom

Fever, chills and rapid breathing. Some patients have a normal, or even low, temperature.

Investigation

Abnormal white blood cell levels. Responsible bacteria can be cultured from the blood and identified.

Bacteraemia Treatment

Treat underlying disease if possible, and appropriate antibiotics.

Complications

Infection may spread to other organs, or worsen into septicaemia.

Prognosis of Bacteraemia

Most recover well with treatment, but more serious in those with significant underlying disease.