What is the mortality rate of Vibrio vulnificus infection among those who become hypotensive?

• A. About 5%
• B. About 20%
• C. About 50%
• D. Exceeds 90% specifically among those who become hypotensive

Answer: (D)

When Vibrio vulnificus infection progresses to septicemia and the patient becomes hypotensive, the situation shifts into septic shock, a state that dramatically worsens outcomes. This fulminant course often leads to multi‑organ failure and death, with mortality in hypotensive patients reported to exceed 90%. The high risk is tied to the organism’s rapid invasion of the bloodstream and the patient’s vulnerability (such as liver disease or iron overload), making this subset of patients far more likely to die despite treatment. So the most accurate statement is that mortality in those who become hypotensive exceeds 90%.