Organ dysfunction during sepsis.
BACKGROUND
Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome is the commonest reason for sepsis-associated mortality.


CONCLUSIONS
In the 40 years since it was first described understanding of its pathophysiology has improved, and novel methodologies for monitoring and severity of illness scoring have emerged. These, together with the development of systematic strategies for managing organ dysfunction in sepsis, and potentially effective new therapeutic interventions, should assist in reducing sepsis-associated mortality.


CONCLUSIONS
These historical developments are discussed, and the reader is directed to these references for further guidance.
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, Department of Intensive Care Medicine, 369 Fulham Road, SW10 9NH, London, UK. suveer.singh@imperial.ac.uk
Suveer
S
Singh
Timothy W
TW
Evans
D006801:Humans; D007362:Intensive Care Units; D009102:Multiple Organ Failure / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000401:mortality / Q000503:physiopathology*; D018805:Sepsis / Q000401:mortality / Q000503:physiopathology*; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D006113:United Kingdom / Q000453:epidemiology