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A
cytokine storm is the systemic expression of a healthy and vigorous immune
system resulting in the release of more than 150 inflammatory mediators
(cytokines, oxygen free radicals, and coagulation factors). Both
pro-inflammatory cytokines (such as Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha,
InterLeukin-1, and InterLeukin-6) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (such as
interleukin 10, and interleukin 1 receptor antagonist) are elevated in the
serum, and the fierce and often lethal interplay of these cytokines is
referred to as a "Cytokine Storm". The primary contributors to the cytokine
storm are TNF-a (Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha) and IL-6 (Interleukin-6). The
cytokine storm is an inappropriate (exaggerated) immune response that is
caused by rapidly proliferating and highly activated T-cells or natural
killer (NK) cells. These cells are themselves activated by infected
macrophages. The cytokine storm must be treated and suppressed or lethality
can result.
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