What is the difference between bacteriemia and septicemia?

Definitions: "Bacteremia" means "bacteria in the blood." "Septicemia" is an older term for what we now call "severe sepsis" or "septic shock." Severe sepsis or septic shock is an exaggerated inflammatory response in the body from an infection. Any infection can cause severe sepsis or septic shock. Many times, "bacteremia" is a cause of severe sepsis/septic shock. Prompt treatment is essential for recovery.