Recent advances in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of sepsis-associated encephalopathy

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction syndrome caused by the host's dysregulated response to infection. The leading causes of death in critically ill patients are sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE), respiratory dysfunction, circulatory dysfunction, and other multi-organ dysfunctions. SAE is among the most common serious complications of sepsis and is associated with a poor prognosis and long-term cognitive dysfunction. Its clinical manifestations vary, and there are still no unified diagnostic criteria. The incidence of SAE varies from 9% to 71% in critically ill patients due to therapeutic interventions such as sedation, mechanical ventilation, and muscle relaxants. Advances in medical technology have significantly increased the survival rate of patients with sepsis, but up to 21% now experience long-term sequelae or cognitive impairment. The lack of specific early diagnostic and treatment methods leads to increased SAE-associated mortality and complications in patients, which also impose heavy economic burdens. This article reviews the pathogenesis and diagnostic methods of SAE and progress in its treatment, aiming to reduce the mortality and hospitalization lengths of patients with SAE and improve their survival rate and quality of life through early detection, diagnosis, and effective treatment.