Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Endotoxin Activity Assay for the Detection of Whole Blood Endotoxemia in Critically Ill Patients
Published on: June 24, 2019
Tumour necrosis factor-alpha and adenosine in endotoxin shockleading related cardiovascular symptoms
Abstract:
We have observed uncontrollable cardiogenic shock as a cardiovascular manifestation of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) leading to death in a 62-year-old woman. The diagnosis of SIRS was based on the demonstration of endotoxinaemia, and highly elevated plasma levels of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and interleukin (IL)-10. We suggest that these cytokines may contribute to the terminal SIRS-related arrythmias, impaired myocardial contractility, as well as increased vascular permeability. In addition, the increased production of adenosine, a counter-regulatory mediator of inflammation, may also play a role in cardiodepression. We suggest a relationship between the action of TNF-alpha , IL-10 and adenosine in the pathogenesis of circulatory symptoms described above.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Inflammation III: Local and Systemic Effects
Heart Failure II: Pathophysiology
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation IV: Pharmacological Management
Cellular Injury IV: Necrosis
Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System II: CRP, Hcy, and Cardiac Natriuretic Peptide Markers
These markers indicate stress or strain on the heart muscle:
Natriuretic Peptides (BNP)
Cardiac myocytes produce these hormones in response to ventricular stretching...
Acute Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology
