Sepsis and meningitis: Diagnosis and negligence claims

Sepsis and meningitis: Diagnosis & negligence claims

Ailish Simpson, Clinical Negligence

Sepsis and meningitis are very serious, life-threatening condition, so early recognition and treatment is crucial to ensure the best chance of recovery. Problems can arise in the diagnosis and treatment of these serious infections. If you are concerned regarding the treatment you or a loved one has received, you may be considering bringing a medical negligence claim, and we can assist.

What is sepsis?

Sepsis occurs when the immune system responds to an infection by attacking itself rather than the infection, causing inflammation throughout the body and reduced organ function. Without timely treatment it can progress to septic shock, which is a dangerous drop in blood pressure that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure and death.

The most common cause of sepsis is a bacterial infection, but it can also be caused by fungal and viral infections.

Sepsis can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender, however you may be at a higher risk if:

• You have an injury such as a severe open wound or burn
• You have a weakened immune system, or a health condition such as diabetes or cancer which can impact on your immune system
• You have a catheter or breathing tube
• You are over the age of 65
• You are pregnant

What is meningitis?

Meningitis is the infection and swelling of the fluid and membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. In serious meningitis cases, complications that can arise from a delay in treatment include long-term brain damage, limb amputation and death.

The most common cause of meningitis is a viral infection, however it can also be caused by bacterial and fungal infections, as well as parasites.

Similarly to sepsis, meningitis can affect anyone, however those who are at higher risk include babies, young children, teenagers and young adults.

What are the differences between sepsis and meningitis?

• Meningitis is an infection, whereas sepsis the immune system’s response to an infection.
• Bacterial and viral meningitis can spread from person to person, whereas sepsis cannot (although the infection which caused the sepsis may be contagious).
• Symptoms of sepsis and meningitis:
• Sepsis and meningitis share similar symptoms. Some of these include:
• Fever
• Vomiting/diarrhoea
• A rash that does not fade when rolling a glass over it
• Confusion and disorientation
• Stiff neck
• Muscle and joint pain
• Headaches
• Dislike of bright lights
• Rapid breathing
• Cold hands and feet

In babies, additional symptoms include:

• A high-pitched cry
• Irritability
• Unresponsiveness
• Refusing feeds

How are these conditions diagnosed and how can claims arise?

Sepsis and meningitis can be diagnosed through physical assessments, blood tests and medical imaging. Meningitis can also be diagnosed through a lumbar puncture test, which is used to collect spinal fluid for testing.

Early diagnosis and treatment is crucial. The earlier treatment is received, the greater the chance of survival and the lower the risk of irreversible damage. Negligent delays in diagnosis or negligent treatment can have devastating effects.

Delays in diagnosis or misdiagnosis (for example, being diagnosed with food poisoning, a migraine or muscle and joint pain) can cause delays in treatment. These delays can mean antibiotics, which are essential in treating sepsis and meningitis, are not administered as early as they should be, allowing the infection to become worse. This can often result in life changing injuries to the patient, or even death.

How can we help?

If you have concerns regarding treatment you or a loved one has received for sepsis or meningitis, you may wish to consider pursuing legal action.

Our team of expert medical negligence solicitors is here to help. If you have concerns about substandard treatment relating to sepsis or meningitis, please do not hesitate to contact us for a free no obligation discussion.