Surviving Sepsis Is Not Enough, Time to Confront Post-sepsis Syndrome, A Narrative Review

Abstract

While global advances in sepsis care have reduced acute mortality, 
many survivors face a persistent burden of Post-Sepsis Syndrome 
(PSS), a complex condition encompassing physical, cognitive, 
psychological, immunologic, and social sequelae. Despite its 
prevalence, post-sepsis care remains fragmented and under
recognized within routine critical care pathways.
 Relevant literature on post-sepsis outcomes was reviewed 
through major scientific databases, focusing on studies exploring 
the physical, cognitive, psychological, immunologic, and social 
consequences of sepsis. Observational, interventional, and review 
articles contributing to the understanding of post-sepsis syndrome 
were evaluated, and findings were synthesized narratively across 
key thematic domains. Recent multi-center and population-based 
studies reveal that over half of sepsis survivors experience at 
least one PSS component within the first year after discharge. 
Persistent fatigue, neuromuscular weakness, cognitive dysfunction, 
depression, anxiety, and increased susceptibility to infections 
are the most common manifestations. Hospital readmission and 
long-term functional decline remain frequent, while structured 
follow-up and rehabilitation services are scarce. Awareness among 
clinicians and policy frameworks addressing survivorship are 
limited. The reduction of in-hospital sepsis mortality has unveiled 
a new challenge; survivorship. Long-term recovery requires 
coordinated and multidisciplinary care extending beyond ICU 
discharge. Integrating PSS surveillance, rehabilitation programs, 
and patient education into national sepsis strategies is essential 
to improve functional outcomes and quality of life.