A10. Multiple organ failure

Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), also called multiple organ failure (MOF) is defined as the acute insufficiency of 2 or more organ systems, requiring intervention to maintain homeostasis. It has high mortality, and the mortality increases with the amount of failing organ systems. It is mostly seen as an end-stage of sepsis or other severe systemic inflammatory response syndrome like acute pancreatitis.

The SOFA score is used to evaluate organ function to diagnose MOF.

Management is by treating the underlying condition while supporting the organs which are dysfunctioning, for example with mechanical ventilation, renal replacement therapy, etc.