Molecular events underlie the pathogenesis of MODS is not well-established, therefore, the temporal course of pathophysiological changes leading to the development of MODS are of great clinical and research interest. Keeping in mind “There is no gold standard diagnostic tool for MODS”, however, several studies have utilized one or two biomarkers for detection of single rather than multiple organ dysfunctions. General markers of inflam- mation including cytokines are correlated with posttrau- matic complications with a low sensitivity and specificity and are, therefore, of little utilization as prognostic mark- ers [23]. To date, all therapeutic strategies focused on a single mediator or receptor has failed to improve the clini- cal outcome associated with MODS [2]. However, a re- cent small study showed that cytokine expression du- ring shock may enable earlier identification of patients who are at risk for development of MODS [24].
There are only few registries and prospective studies that reported the prevalence of MODS worldwide [11,25]. Furthermore, there is no consensus to support the sensi- tivity and specificity, predictive values of one or more serum markers in the diagnosis or prediction of organ dysfunction before the overt clinical failure. Therapeutic strategies to combat the post injury MODS have focused on control of the post injury inflammatory response [25].
Early detection of MODS need extensive prospective studies as this will be reflected on the morbidity and mor- tality in all ICUs. For that purpose, ICUs should have prospective data collection on MODS in its database re- gistry. Subsequently, registries will pave ways for the ap- propriate evaluation and management.