Racial Differences in Severe Sepsis

Severe sepsis occurs more often — and is more deadly — in blacks than in whites.

Epidemiologic studies have consistently shown a higher incidence of severe sepsis in blacks than in whites. Does this disparity stem from differences in susceptibility to infection or from differences in risk for organ dysfunction after infection develops?

To find out, researchers analyzed hospitalizations for infection and severe sepsis, using comprehensive hospital discharge databases from seven U.S. states for 2005. In addition, to eliminate confounding caused by differences in admission thresholds, they assessed admissions rates following emergency department (ED) visits for infection, using National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey data for 2003 to 2007.

The researchers identified 2,261,857 hospitalizations for infection and 381,7…

Reviewing Author

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health