Bugs, genes, and the intensive care unit

Severe sepsis and septic shock are among the leading causes of mortality in critically ill patients (1). Patients who survive the initial septic insult often still die in the intensive care unit (ICU) despite receiving timely resuscitation and appropriate early antibiotic therapy. What kills these patients? Why do some patients with sepsis succumb whilst others survive? What distinguishes sepsis from other diseases that cause significant systemic inflammation and immunomodulation?