The systemic inflammatory response syndrome: definitions and aetiology

Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is the clinical expression of the action of complex intrinsic mediators of the acute phase reaction. SIRS can be precipitated by events such as infection, trauma, pancreatitis, and surgery. At times, SIRS can compromise the function of various organ systems resulting in Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS). SIRS and MODS are graded expressions of the inflammation associated with acute illness. Mild forms are frequent in general wards for both medical and surgical patients but those with severe forms require intensive care. Clinicians should learn to identify SIRS in their patients at an early stage to determine the underlying cause and treatment before the SIRS progresses to a more severe form.