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Systemic
Definition
Systemic means "affecting the entire body," rather than a single organ or body part. For example, systemic disorders such as high blood pressure or systemic diseases such as influenza affect the entire body.
An infection that is in the blood stream is referred to as a systemic infection. In contrast, an infection pertaining to one body part or organ is referred to as a localized infection.
Alternative Names
Somatic
Review Date:
2/9/2005
Reviewed By: Thomas A. Owens, M.D., Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
Reviewed By: Thomas A. Owens, M.D., Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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