Learning Objectives

• Describe the role of LPS in the development of sepsis
• Describe the role of superantigens in the development of sepsis
• Illustrate the burden of RHD in northern Australia and describe the management
• Apply a process to identify the infectious causes of sepsis and endocarditis
• Define the virulence factors and pathogenic mechanisms of the organisms within the Genera Staphylococcus and Streptococcus

Infection

• what makes blood favourable vs unfavourable for microbes?
• what 4 conditions are required for infection?
• what groups of patients are at risk of infection?
• what are 2 ‘safe havens’ for bacteria?

Sepsis

• Sepsis Progression Terminology
• what 4 events can initiate sepsis?
• what are the clinical features of sepsis?
• what investigations can confirm sepsis?
• what are some endogenous sources of sepsis?
• what gram-negative bacteria can cause sepsis?
• how does LPS (endotoxin) cause sepsis?