Rational approach to the management of multiple systems organ failure.

MSOF is a complicated disorder that can involve every organ system in the body. Whatever causes or perpetuates the syndrome, its management involves the prevention and treatment of infection, the maintenance of tissue oxygenation, nutritional and metabolic support, and the support of individual organ systems. Unfortunately, this therapy often is nonspecific and of little proven efficacy. It also is potentially harmful in that measures used to benefit some organ systems may be detrimental to others. Further research is needed both to understand MSOF and to improve its management.