Abstract

The immune system protects the host organism from exogenous and endogenouspathogens. A finely tuned and
balanced array of cytokines, coagulation factors, andcomplement together with immunocompetent cells protect the
body from a wide variety ofknown and unknown invaders. Usually, pro- and anti-inflammation are tightly regulatedto
adequately counter the infectious event. A pro-inflammatory milieu typically dominatesthe initial phase; however,
anti-inflammation is initiated early to reach a new equilibriumand to start tissue repair processes. Various pathogens
and malignant and autoimmune diseases as well as genetic changes, but also iatrogenic interventions, can disturb this
equilibrium so that an excessive release of cytokines can occur. In its severe (albeit rare) form, this is referred to as
cytokine storm. As a result, positive feedback mechanisms and self-sustained activation of immune cells occur. The
resulting hyperinflammation can lead to a life-threatening condition.