How sepsis can start

An ingrown toenail develops when the sides of the toenail grow into the surrounding skin, often causing it to become infected.

A build-up of fluid can appear under and around the nail, and as that seeps out, bacteria can spread.

In Miss Moore’s case, the minor surgery to treat it triggered Complex Regional Pain Syndrome which caused an infection leading to sepsis.

Sepsis can develop if the immune system overreacts, sometimes causing fever and inflammation. It can progress rapidly, and can lead to “septic shock” and organ failure.