[Mediator systems and infection]

Sepsis is the systemic response of the body to an infection. Sepsis-like conditions with nearly identical body reactions, however, are also seen without any evidence of bacteremia. Sepsis is a disease of the host response (specific and non-specific immune system). Depending on the time of the disease process, different mediators (released or newly formed) are involved. This review summarizes the current knowledge and interactions of different cells, cascade systems and mediators in the pathogenesis of sepsis and gives an overview of the approaches and results of current "anti-mediator strategies" to control or modulate inadequate mediator responses.