Epidemiology and outcomes of septic shock in Thai children: a nationwide retrospective study from 2015 to 2022

Paediatric septic shock is a formidable challenge worldwide that significantly impacts health care systems. This nationwide retrospective study analyses the prevalence and mortality rates of paediatric septic shock across Thailand from 2015 to 2022, focusing on hospital burdens, including mechanical ventilation and renal replacement therapy. The study included paediatric patients ranging from infants to individuals under 18 years of age who were admitted to hospitals due to septic shock across Thailand. Data were retrospectively gathered from the Thai National Health Security Office for the years 2015–2022. The data included demographic data, clinical outcomes, and hospital burden indicators such as mechanical ventilation and renal replacement therapy. From 2015 to 2022, there were 30,718 paediatric admissions for septic shock, with a peak in 2019. The highest incidence was observed in infants, accounting for 44.7% of the cases. The prevalence rate increased from 190 per 100,000 population in 2015 to a peak of 280 per 100,000 population in 2020. Mortality rates decreased from 30.7% in 2015 to 20.2% in 2022, with a peak of 40.5% observed in the central region in 2015. The study highlighted a substantial health care burden, with 34.9% of patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation and 23.4% needing renal replacement therapy. Despite a decrease in mortality, paediatric septic shock remains a significant burden on the health care system in Thailand. Urgent improvements in resources and adherence to clinical guidelines, especially in under-resourced areas, are necessary. Addressing disparities in mortality and resource usage across hospital levels is vital for improving outcomes and reducing the health care burden of paediatric patients with septic shock.