[Prognostic markers of sepsis and septic shock]

The first stage of systemic inflammatory response during sepsis and septic shock is the massive production of proinflammatory cytokines. Numerous clinical trials were done investigating various agents that were thought to stop this reaction. The results, however, were disappointing. Then it was realised that massive production of antiinflammatory cytokines could also be delirious. Persistent immunosuppression in the course of sepsis increased the risk of death. Therefore the proper balance between pro- and antiinflammatory mediators is extremely important and the methodologies available for monitoring immunological status in patients with sepsis and septic shock are currently of great interest.