Cytokine Storm Syndrome

Cytokine Storm Syndromes, including HLH and MAS, are frequently fatal disorders, particularly if not recognized early and treated during presentation. The genetics of Cytokine Storm Syndromes are being defined with many of the risk alleles giving rise to mutations in the perforin-mediated cytolytic pathway used by CD8 cytotoxic T cells and natural killer cells. These are being studied using murine models. Up to 10% of the general population may carry risk alleles for developing Cytokine Storm Syndromes, and Cytokine Storm Syndromes are being increasingly recognized around the world in pediatric and adult hospitals.

A variety of infectious, rheumatic, and oncologic triggers are commonly associated with Cytokine Storm Syndromes, but understanding this disorder is critical for all researchers and physicians to ensure timely and appropriate therapy. This second edition addresses all aspects of the disorder, from genetics, pathophysiology, and ongoing research, to clinical presentations, risk factors and treatment. New-to-this-edition features include dedicated chapters on severe COVID-19 CSS, and post-COVID CSS of multi-system inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). In addition, novel topics including CSS associated with Castleman disease, pregnancy, therapeutics, transplantation, and cardiac bypass, as well as treatment with JAK inhibitors are addressed. 

University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine