[Intensive care medicine aspects of infection and septic multiple organ failure]

The clinical syndrome sepsis has been redefined recently, and the SIRS (systemic inflammatory response syndrome) concept has been developed. In the initial phase of sepsis, different mediator systems are activated finally resulting in a generalized endothelial inflammatory reaction. This reaction may lead to a vicious circle with subsequent multiple organ failure. Standard therapeutic regimen include the surgical removal of the source of sepsis, antimicrobial therapy, optimizing oxygenation, volume resuscitation, and treatment with catecholamines. Recently, new treatment modalities have become available. Replacement of antithrombin III, continuous venovenous hemofiltration, application of high doses of immunoglobulins and of low doses of hydrocortisone have been used. A monoclonal antibody against endotoxin (Centoxin) was taken from the German market in January 1993. Experimental aspects of treatment include the administration of C1 esterase inhibitor, pharmacological inhibition of nitric oxide (NO), plasmapheresis, the application of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents and of high-dose naloxone as well as manipulation of cytokines.