Bei einer Immundysfunktion kritisch Kranker gibt es nur begrenzte therapeutische Möglichkeiten und bei Persistenz ist sie mit einer hohen Sterblichkeit assoziiert. Das Immunsystem ist das
potenteste Antiinfektivum des Menschen – so ist die Kenntnis inflammatorischer Reaktionsmuster, der Besonderheiten in Prophylaxe und Therapie von Sekundärinfektionen und möglicher
Therapieoptionen zur Restitution des Immunsystems hochrelevant.
Abstract
Critically ill patients often experience a dysregulated immune response, leading to immune dysfunction. Sepsis, trauma, severe infections, and certain medical conditions can trigger a state
of systemic inflammation, known as the cytokine storm. This hyperactive immune response can cause collateral damage to healthy tissues and organs, exacerbating the patient’s condition. On
the other hand, some critically ill patients may suffer from immune paralysis which can increase the risk of nosocomial infections.
Fever is an evolutionary adaptation that evolved as an effective defense mechanism to fight invading pathogens. By raising body temperature, fever enhances the immune response, inhibits
pathogen growth, promotes recovery, and aids in the formation of immune memory. Understanding the role of fever in the context of immune defense is crucial for optimizing medical
interventions and supporting the body’s natural ability to combat infections.
Future Directions: Advancements in immunology research and technology hold promise for better understanding the immune system’s complexities in critically ill patients. Personalized
medicine approaches may be developed to tailor therapies to individual patients based on their immune profile, optimizing treatment outcomes. Based on recent studies prognostic parameters
such as lymphocyte count, IL-10 concentration and mHLA-DR expression can be used to stratify the immunological response pattern in septic patients.
Conclusion: The immune system’s response in critically ill patients is a multifaceted process, involving intricate interactions between various immune cells, cytokines, and organs. Striking
the delicate balance between immune activation and suppression remains a significant challenge in clinical practice. Continued research and therapeutic innovations are vital to improve
patient outcomes and reduce the burden of critical illness on healthcare systems.
Schlüsselwörter
kritische Erkrankung - Sepsis - Immunoseneszenz - Fieber - Sekundärinfektionen
Keywords
critical illness - sepsis - immune senescence - fever - immunosuppression