Cytokine storm, management, reasons, stages, challenges

Cytokine storm, management, reasons, stages, challenges

1. Sepsis

2. Definition A cytokine storm is an exaggerated immune response where the body releases excessive inflammatory cytokines, leading to widespread tissue damage and multi-organ failure. Causes of Cytokine Storm Infections : Sepsis, COVID-19, influenza, dengue Autoimmune diseases : Lupus, macrophage activation syndrome Cancer treatments : CAR-T cell therapy Severe burns, trauma

3. Pathophysiology Trigger (Infection, Trauma, Cancer therapy) Activation of immune cells (macrophages, T cells, monocytes) Cytokine Release Overproduction of IL-6, IL-1, TNF-α, IFN-γ Increased vascular permeability → Fluid leak → Hypotension → Shock Organ Damage Lungs : ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome) due to capillary leak Kidneys : AKI due to hypoperfusion Heart : Myocardial depression, cardiogenic shock Liver : Hepatic dysfunction due to ischemia

4. Clinical Features of Cytokine Storm High fever, tachycardia, hypotension Severe respiratory distress (ARDS) Multi-organ failure (Kidney, liver, heart dysfunction) Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)

5. Management of Cytokine Storm Supportive care (ICU, ventilator for ARDS) Steroids (Dexamethasone) to suppress inflammation Cytokine blockers (IL-6 inhibitors like Tocilizumab in COVID-19) Plasmapheresis to remove inflammatory mediators Dialysis for AKI in cytokine storm-related multi-organ failure