systemic inflammatory response syndrome

(sis-TEH-mik in-FLA-muh-TOR-ee reh-SPONTS SIN-drome) A serious condition in which there is inflammation throughout the whole body. It may be caused by a severe bacterial infection (sepsis), trauma, or pancreatitis. It is marked by fast heart rate, low blood pressure, low or high body temperature, and low or high white blood cell count. The condition may lead to multiple organ failure and shock. Also called SIRS.