Multiorganes

Multiorganes refers to the involvement or failure of two or more organ systems in a clinical condition. It is commonly discussed in the context of acute illnesses such as sepsis, major trauma, pancreatitis, severe burns, or toxic exposures where systemic inflammation and circulatory derangements can affect several organs.

Pathophysiology and manifestations: Inflammation, hypoperfusion, and metabolic derangements can injure multiple organs. Lungs (acute respiratory failure or ARDS), kidneys (acute kidney injury), liver (hepatic dysfunction), heart (cardiovascular instability), and brain (encephalopathy) are frequently involved. The exact pattern depends on the trigger, the timing, and individual patient factors.

Diagnosis and monitoring: Evaluation relies on organ-specific tests and clinical criteria; scores like the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) quantify the extent of organ dysfunction and help monitor progression. Pediatric adaptations exist for children.

Management: The primary approach is to treat the underlying cause while providing organ support. This can include mechanical ventilation, renal replacement therapy, vasopressor support, and careful fluid and infection management. Early recognition and prevention of progression are essential to outcomes.

Multiorgan transplantation: In a related context, multiorgan transplantation refers to transplanting more than one organ in a single recipient, such as heart–liver, kidney–pancreas, or liver–kidney transplants. These procedures require specialized multidisciplinary teams, donor–recipient matching, and complex immunosuppression. Outcomes depend on the organ combinations and the recipient’s condition.