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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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