The currently available data on the pathogenesis of a systemic inflammatory reaction (SIR) are reviewed in terms of dys-regulation of membrane-cytoskeletal interactions, cellular adhesion, membrane particle release, and development of endothelial dysfunction as a key factor in the genesis of SIR. Key words: systemic inflammatory reaction, membrane particles, blebbing, selectines, cytokines.

The currently available data on the pathogenesis of a systemic inflammatory reaction (SIR) are reviewed in terms of dys-regulation of membrane-cytoskeletal interactions, cellular adhesion, membrane particle release, and development of endothelial dysfunction as a key factor in the genesis of SIR. Key words: systemic inflammatory reaction, membrane particles, blebbing, selectines, cytokines.