What is sepsis?

Sepsis is defined as a life-threatening condition that arises when the body's response to an infection injures its own tissues and organs. It typically occurs after an infection spreads throughout the body, triggering widespread inflammation, which can lead to a cascade of changes that impair the function of multiple organ systems. This reaction can result in shock and multi-organ failure if not recognized and treated promptly.

Understanding this, option B accurately captures the urgency and severity of sepsis, highlighting its life-threatening nature as a consequence of the body's response to an infection. The importance of this definition lies in the critical need for immediate medical intervention, as timely treatment can drastically improve outcomes for patients facing sepsis.

In contrast, the other options present inaccuracies regarding sepsis: the condition is neither mild nor merely an allergic reaction or chronic disease, and these mischaracterizations downplay the seriousness of the condition and the potential for rapid deterioration in patients.