[Sepsis in children]

Sepsis is a life-threatening syndrome that occurs when a dysregulated host response to infection results in organ dysfunction. Globally, approximately 50 million cases of sepsis are diagnosed each year, with children accounting for nearly half. Despite advances in vaccination and medical treatment, sepsis remains one of the leading causes of childhood mortality worldwide, and many survivors experience long-term sequelae. The aim of this short review is to raise awareness of recent developments and to discuss key aspects of the diagnosis and management of pediatric sepsis. The clinical presentation of sepsis is often nonspecific, including symptoms such as fever, tachycardia, and increased respiratory rate, making diagnosis challenging. Systematic screening using clinical assessment tools, combined with targeted measurement of biomarkers, can facilitate earlier and more accurate diagnosis. Prognosis improves significantly when appropriate treatment is initiated promptly. It is therefore essential that physicians and other healthcare professionals maintain a high index of suspicion for sepsis, assess risk systematically, and actively seek clinical and biochemical signs of the condition. When sepsis is suspected, antimicrobial therapy should be administered as soon as possible, with blood cultures obtained beforehand if this does not cause significant delay. Judicious fluid resuscitation and frequent reassessment of the patient's condition are crucial, and in severe cases, initiation of intravenous or intraosseous adrenaline infusion should not be delayed. The authors hope that this review will appeal to a broad readership and support clinicians in the rapid and safe recognition and management of sepsis in children.