Search

Sepsis is a leading cause of death in many intensive care units [1]. The pathophysiology of sepsis is characterized by a dysregulation of the immune system in response to infection or secondary to trauma. Initial hyperinflammation often results in septic shock. Simultaneously, part of the immune system is deactivated leading to a emporary but often deadly immunosuppression. In attempting to arrive at a more detailed understanding of immunophysiological processes during sepsis over the last few years, apoptosis has been recognized as one of the key factors in the pathophysiology of sepsis [2]. As shown in several animal models, accelerated apoptosis seems to be induced in leukocytes and many immunocompetent cells during sepsis [3, 4]. Similar processes are involved in humans [5]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]