[Adhesion molecules and their role in organ response after trauma]

In this paper, we presented general characterization of adhesion molecules and their role in organ response after injury. Severe trauma is frequently complicated by multiple organ dysfunction (MODS) or failure (MOF). The pathogenesis of these syndromes involves a complex interaction of humoral and cellular events. The recruitment of circulatory leukocytes into tissues is regulated in part by specific leukocyte-endothelial cell interactions with several families of cell adhesion molecules. In the adhesion cascade, the initial phase of inflammation, a transient slowing of neutrophils in postcapillary venules is mediated by selectins. Firm adhesion of neutrophils to the endothelium occurs by interaction of beta 2 integrins to ICAM-1. Diapedesis between endothelial cells requires the engagement of PECAM-1. Significance of the adhesion molecule in organ response after severe trauma permitted their diagnostic and prognostic use as well as new methods of treatment.