Septic encephalopathy (SE) is defined as brain
dysfunction due to sepsis and SIRS [4] and can also be
called sepsis-associated delirium. There are no proofed
consensus criteria to diagnose SE. It shall only be diagnosed,
if any other causes of disturbed brain function are excluded.
Extracranial infection and impaired mental state must be
evident. Clinically, acute impairment in the level of
consciousness and confusion (manifested by alteration in
attention, disorientation and concentration up to deep coma
in more severe cases) are primarily defining symptoms.
Usually it occurs early in the septic process before other
organ involvement [5]. It represents the severe end of
symptoms like weakness, anorexia, malaise and
concentration deficits that are commonly found in febrile
patients. Patients may show tremor, myoclonus, asterixis and
seldom focal or generalized seizures, whereas those
symptoms are seen less often in SE than in metabolic
encephalopathies. Neurological findings are symmetrical and
rigidity is common [6-8]. Newly developed focal
neurological deficits misfit to SE and require further
diagnostics, e.g. brain imaging [9].