How to Do Echo in Septic Cardiomyopathy: A Consensus Statement of the Italian Society of Echocardiography and Cardiovascular Imaging

Septic cardiomyopathy (SCM) is an acute, reversible myocardial dysfunction occurring in the context of sepsis, independent of ischemic heart disease. Despite its frequent occurrence in critically ill patients, SCM remains poorly defined and underdiagnosed. This article provides clinicians with a practical guide for the recognition and management of SCM, with particular attention to the role of bedside echocardiography. Echocardiography is emphasized as both a diagnostic and hemodynamic monitoring tool to optimize treatment strategies in patients with sepsis and septic shock. Advanced techniques such as speckle-tracking echocardiography enhance sensitivity for detecting subclinical myocardial impairment and support differential diagnosis. Real-time echocardiographic assessment allows tailored therapy and may improve patient outcomes. Key elements include the recognition of characteristic echocardiographic patterns, integration of global longitudinal strain analysis, and the use of echocardiographic findings to guide hemodynamic management decisions.