What defines a systemic infection?

A systemic infection is characterized by its ability to affect the entire body rather than being localized to one specific area. This occurs when pathogens, such as bacteria or viruses, enter the bloodstream and disseminate throughout the body, leading to widespread inflammatory responses that can impact multiple organ systems. Symptoms of systemic infections often include fever, malaise, fatigue, and in some cases, septic shock, indicating that the infection is not confined to one location.

In contrast, localized infections tend to produce pain and inflammation in a specific area and can usually be addressed with targeted treatments. While topical antibiotics may be effective for localized infections, they are not suitable for systemic infections, which typically require systemic treatment via oral or intravenous antibiotics. Similarly, dormant infections are confined in the body without causing widespread effects, which further distinguishes systemic infections from other types of infections.