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The systemic inflammatory response syndrome

Department of Intensive Care, London Chest Hospital, London, UK., MarkMessent{at}btinternet.com

Mark Messent

Department of Intensive Care, London Chest Hospital, London, UK

The systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) describes the clinical presentation of patients with systemic activation of the inflammatory response from any underlying cause. SIRS is a common problem in acute medical and surgical practice and an important cause of morbidity and mortality. As a consequence of SIRS, patients may develop multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Over the recent years our understanding of the inflammatory response in SIRS has increased, but as yet specific immunomodulatory therapies have not proved useful. The mainstay of treatment for patients with SIRS and ARDS remains a general supportive care. It is in this area that more encouraging advances are being made, particularly in the management of invasive ventilation and nutrition. In this review we summarize the definitions, epidemiology and pathophysiology of SIRS, ARDS and related conditions. We then give a description of the clinical consequences and treatment of SIRS and ARDS with an emphasis on current aspects of supportive care.

Key Words: systemic inflammatory response syndrome • sepsis • acute respiratory distress syndrome • multiple organ dysfunction syndrome • critical illness

Trauma, Vol. 3, No. 2, 89-100 (2001)
DOI: 10.1177/146040860100300203


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