Figure 3.

Clinical phases of sepsis and factors influencing outcome. The clinical course of sepsis is characterized by accelerated progression in severity of illness leading to the development of clinical sepsis. The outcome of each clinical phase of sepsis is influenced by multiple factors. The pre-sepsis phase is influenced primarily by the baseline functional state of the patient. Pre-sepsis functionality directly affects the course of acute sepsis including onset, magnitude and duration. Furthermore, properties inherent to the type of sepsis and exposures occurring during management of acute sepsis continue to affect outcome. Recovery follows and is largely dependent on the severity of prior phases, though continued exposure to the healthcare system places patients at risk for nosocomial complications. Throughout each phase the specific immune program is heterogenous and influences outcome.