Alterations of Immunologic Mediators During Severe Sepsis

Alterations of Immunologic Mediators During Severe Sepsis

Severe sepsis induces significant changes in expression of insulin- and toll-like receptors, cytokines, markers of apoptosis, and activation of t- and b-lymphocytes.

In patients at early stage of severe sepsis, we investigate the expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, adhesion-molecules, toll-like receptors, insulin-receptors, markers of apoptosis und of t- and b-cell-activation on a mRNA level.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age >= 18 y
• agreement with study procedures
• 3 of 4 SIRS-criteria
• proven or highly suspected infection
• 2 or more sepsis-induced organ failures
• start of first sepsis-induced organ failure within the last 36 hours

Exclusion Criteria:

• non-agreement with study procedures
• signs of severe sepsis with organ failure > 36 hours
• chronic immuno-compromising diseases
• chronic therapy with anti-inflammatory drugs
• non-curable cancer
• chronic renal failure with hemodialysis
• pregnancy or breast-feeding