Removal of circulating cytokines by continuous haemofiltration in patients with systemic inflammatory response syndrome or multiple organ dysfunction syndrome

High continuous levels of plasma circulating cytokines have been reported in patients with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS)1. Such patients either produce excessive amounts of cytokines or cannot clear them from the circulation, and have been suggested to be at an increased risk of developing multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS)2. In this context, cytokine removal may prevent the development of MODS. A study was therefore made of the effects of continuous haemofiltration (CHF) on blood levels of circulating cytokines and on pulmonary, cardiovascular or renal function in patients with SIRS or MODS.