Cor Vasa 2010, 52(3):116-120 | DOI: 10.33678/cor.2010.035

Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome: update 2010

Jiří Chvojka, Martin Matějovič^*

I. interní klinika, JIP, Lékařská fakulta v Plzni, Univerzita Karlova v Praze a Fakultní nemocnice Plzeň, česká republika

Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) is the leading cause of death in intensive care units. Critically ill patients may develop MODS during the course of severe infections, shock, multiple trauma, massive hemorrhage or a combination of the above. Although the exact pathophysiology of MODS remains unknown, it involves widespread molecular, cellular, and systemic alterations characterized by deregulated inflammatory processes, activation of coagulation, neuroendocrine and metabolic responses. Early and aggressive treatment of the underlying disease remains the cornerstone of MODS prevention, while the treatment of MODS itself remains primarily supportive. This review summarizes the epidemiology of MODS, briefly describes our current understanding of the pathophysiology, and discusses the basic principles of preventive and therapeutic approaches.

Keywords: Multiple organ dysfunction; Sepsis; Shock; Pathophysiology; treatment; Intensive care; Organ support

Published: March 1, 2010  Show citation