Pathogenesis and Treatment of Cytokine Storm Induced by Infectious Diseases

Cytokine storm is a phenomenon characterized by strong elevated circulating cytokines that most often occur after an overreactive immune system is activated by an acute systemic infection. A variety of cells participate in cytokine storm induction and progression, with profiles of cytokines released during cytokine storm varying from disease to disease. This review focuses on pathophysiological mechanisms underlying cytokine storm induction and progression induced by pathogenic invasive infectious diseases. Strategies for targeted treatment of various types of infection-induced cytokine storms are described from both host and pathogen perspectives. In summary, current studies indicate that cytokine storm-targeted therapies can effectively alleviate tissue damage while promoting the clearance of invading pathogens. Based on this premise, multi-omics immune system profiling should facilitate the development of more effective therapeutic strategies to alleviate cytokine storms caused by various diseases.

Automated summary

Cytokine storm is a phenomenon characterized by elevated circulating cytokines caused by an overreactive immune system during acute systemic infections. Different diseases have varying profiles of cytokines released during cytokine storms. Targeted therapies for cytokine storms can alleviate tissue damage and promote pathogen clearance, and multi-omics immune system profiling may lead to more effective therapeutic strategies.