Systemic inflammatory response syndrome and acute neurological disease

Systemic inflammatory response syndrome is a common clinical entity often presenting as a complication of neurological disease or trauma. Clear diagnostic criteria exist. Induced pathological mechanisms include both immunological and endothelial dysfunction, and coagulopathy, which may lead to multiple organ failure and significant morbidity. Possible therapeutic mechanisms are discussed, but this complex syndrome is poorly understood and successful treatment may depend on further research into control mechanisms.