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Life-threatening infections rarely occur in children, but when they do they require immediate diagnosis and therapy. The principal aetiologic agents are bacteria and viruses, other microorganisms being less common. The patient’s life is compromised as a result of failure of homeostatic mechanisms or severe functional impairment of vital organs, caused by the pathogen directly or through its toxins. The central or peripheral nervous system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, liver, kidneys or the haemopoetic system may be affected. The authors describe the causes, early symptoms and signs, diagnosis and therapeutic approach to the child suffering from a life-threatening infectious disease.