Which statement describes the correct progression order from SIRS to MODS?

Which statement describes the correct progression order from SIRS to MODS?

• A. SIRS -> sepsis -> septic shock -> MODS
• B. Sepsis -> SIRS -> MODS -> septic shock
• C. SIRS -> MODS -> sepsis -> septic shock
• D. MODS -> SIRS -> sepsis -> septic shock

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is how systemic inflammatory response can progress to widespread organ failure. SIRS is the body’s generalized inflammatory reaction. When that inflammatory response is triggered by an infection, it becomes sepsis. If sepsis leads to persistent low blood pressure and poor tissue perfusion despite fluids, it progresses to septic shock. Prolonged sepsis with significant hypoperfusion can then cause dysfunction of multiple organ systems, known as MODS. So the sequence SIRS → sepsis → septic shock → MODS accurately reflects increasing severity, whereas other sequences place MODS or septic shock earlier than they typically occur.

The idea being tested is how systemic inflammatory response can progress to widespread organ failure. SIRS is the body’s generalized inflammatory reaction. When that inflammatory response is triggered by an infection, it becomes sepsis. If sepsis leads to persistent low blood pressure and poor tissue perfusion despite fluids, it progresses to septic shock. Prolonged sepsis with significant hypoperfusion can then cause dysfunction of multiple organ systems, known as MODS. So the sequence SIRS → sepsis → septic shock → MODS accurately reflects increasing severity, whereas other sequences place MODS or septic shock earlier than they typically occur.