Genetic Factors in Septic Shock

A gene for tumor necrosis factor alpha appears to be linked to septic shock. Septic shock occurs when the cardiovascular system collapses after an infection. A 1999 study found that patients with septic shock were more likely to have the TNF2 gene than a group of healthy volunteers. TNF2 is a form of the gene for tumor necrosis factor alpha, which is known to be involved in septic shock. The presence of the TNF2 gene also increased the risk of death in patients with septic shock. It is not clear why this gene would exist in the population when it causes such a serious condition.