[Septic encephalopathy].

Septic encephalopathy is the most common form of encephalopathy in intensive care units (ICU) and its severity correlates with mortality. Septic encephalopathy is induced by the systemic inflammatory response regardless of its cause. This inflammation damages blood brain barrier and allows circulating neurotoxic substances to extravasate into the brain parenchyma and provoke an inflammatory response. The severity of septic encephalopathy can be assessed with electroencephalography and Glasgow Coma Scale score. Treatment should be focused on early and appropriate antibiotic administration. Supportive treatment measures commonly used in other ICU patients are of limited value in this indication.