Multidisciplinary Strategies for Addressing Abdominal Sepsis in Vulnerable Contexts

Abdominal sepsis was a significant public health issue in Latin America in 2022, characterized by high mortality rates and its association with social and economic inequalities. Despite accounting for one in five global deaths, the region exhibited elevated rates due to limited access to medical infrastructure and standardized protocols. Countries like Mexico and Brazil reported mortality rates exceeding 50%, while in Peru, approximately 40% of diagnosed patients died in intensive care units. The diagnosis of abdominal sepsis was hindered by technological limitations and insufficient staff training. Nosocomial infections and untreated diseases like appendicitis or diverticulitis exacerbated the incidence. The main pathologies included secondary peritonitis caused by intestinal perforations and postoperative complications. These conditions were linked to improper antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance. Management involved broad-spectrum antibiotics, fluid therapy, and surgery but faced logistical and economic barriers. Prevention focused on public health programs, improved infection control, and community education. Training initiatives and the adaptation of international guidelines showed progress, though resource and protocol gaps remained. In conclusion, abdominal sepsis stood out as a critical challenge in the region, requiring coordinated efforts between governments and institutions to mitigate its impact through prevention, early diagnosis, and timely treatment