Immunologic response to infection and its role in septic shock

This article explores the events that take place when bacteria penetrate our skin or mucosal surfaces triggering a vigorous host response including complement activation, antibody formation (initially thymus-independent and eventually thymus-dependent), phagocytosis, production of antibacterial peptides and proteins, oxygen free radicals, the production of cytokines, and activation of the coagulation system. If the mediators of the vigorous host response spill into the systemic circulation, there is resulting multisystem organ failure and potential mortality.