MANAGEMENT OF SEPSIS CAUSED BY ACUTE SPHENOIDITIS IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS

Acute sphenoiditis is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening infection in pediatric patients, occasionally complicated by sepsis, intracranial infection, and organ dysfunction. This review examines current approaches to early diagnosis and management of sphenoiditis-associated sepsis. Nonspecific clinical manifestations may delay recognition, emphasizing the importance of clinical assessment, laboratory investigations, and appropriate neuroimaging. Management requires prompt intravenous empirical antimicrobial therapy, subsequently adjusted according to microbiological findings, source control, and organ support. Hemodynamic instability necessitates pediatric sepsis management, cautious fluid resuscitation, and vasoactive support when indicated. Complicated cases require multidisciplinary collaboration involving intensive care specialists, otolaryngologists, and neurosurgeons. Continuous neurological monitoring and timely assessment for surgical intervention are essential. Early recognition and individualized treatment may reduce complications and improve clinical outcomes.