What is a common complication of severe sepsis?

Acute kidney injury is a common complication of severe sepsis due to the body's systemic inflammatory response and impaired blood flow to the kidneys. During severe sepsis, the body's response to infection leads to widespread inflammation, which can result in reduced oxygen and nutrient delivery to various organs, including the kidneys. This diminished perfusion can cause acute tubular injury and renal dysfunction, characterized by an increase in serum creatinine levels and a decrease in urine output.

While the other options may have associations with various health conditions, they are not direct complications arising from severe sepsis. Chronic pain syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and hypothyroidism are not typically linked to the immediate physiological impacts of severe sepsis, making acute kidney injury the most relevant and immediate complication in this context.