Methods and devices for treating severe peripheral bacterial infections

The present invention relates to novel methods and devices for treating severe bacterial infections, such as septicemia, using an extracorporeal adsorption container. The device has a solid support disposed and confined within the container and a binding means associated with the solid support that is specific for affixing an infecting bacterium that is causing the severe peripheral bacterial infection and/or bacterial toxins from the bacterium. By passing the infected blood through the container. at least a portion of the infecting bacterium and/or bacterial toxins are removed. The treated blood is returned to the patient.