decompensation

(noun)

The inability of a diseased or weakened organic system or organ to compensate for its deficiency, which then results in functional deterioration.

Examples of decompensation in the following topics:

  • Exhaustion

    • If stage three is extended, long-term damage may result, as the body's immune system becomes exhausted, and bodily functions become impaired and result in decompensation.

  • Types of Shock

    • The typical signs of shock are low blood pressure, a rapid heartbeat, and signs of poor end-organ perfusion or decompensation (such as low urine output, confusion, or loss of consciousness).

  • Disease Severity and Duration

    • Severity of illness is defined as the extent of organ system derangement or physiologic decompensation of a patient.

  • Congestive Heart Failure

    • Ultimately, acute decompensated heart failure can occur; a term used to describe episodes in which a patient can be characterized as having a change in heart failure signs and symptoms resulting in a need for urgent therapy or hospitalization.