Hello,

The SNOMED International Content Team is seeking feedback on how to implement a new modelling approach and description format for 91302008 |Sepsis (disorder)| and its subtypes, while aiming to minimise disruption to users.

In 2016, the Society of Critical Care Medicine and the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine convened a task force to update the definitions of sepsis and septic shock, resulting in the Sepsis-3 standard. In sepsis, the infectious agent triggers a maladaptive immune response. It is this systemic host response, rather than the pathogen itself, that causes direct injury to tissues and organs.

Using the 246075003 |Causative agent (attribute)| for sepsis is logically inconsistent with the clinical definition outlined by Sepsis-3. Since the agent does not cause the organ dysfunction directly, but rather initiates the host's dysregulated response, the 42752001 |Due to (attribute)| is the more accurate semantic link to 40733004 |Infectious disease (disorder)| or subtype. This modelling approach would still allow the concepts to be sufficiently defined.

For more details, examples, proposed modelling approach and options and to see the list of concepts in scope and proposed description changes, please see the attached briefing note .

Following community engagement and approval, changes will be planned for Q2-Q3 2026.

Please provide comments, questions, and suggestions on the Briefing Notes page via this forum before March 4.

Thank you,