Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by a dysregulated immune response to infection. It affects over 25 million individuals annually. A more severe subset, septic shock, is characterized by persistent low blood pressure and a hospital mortality rates that exceeds 40%. While early mortality from sepsis has significantly declined in recent years, many survivors of the initial hyperinflammation and organ damage face long-term complications, including secondary infections. Despite extensive clinical trials aimed at this stage of the disease, there are currently no therapies specifically designed for sepsis.
Traditional treatment approaches often fail to address immune dysregulation, emphasizing the need for innovative therapeutic strategies. Immunomodulatory therapy offers potential in sepsis management by reestablishing immune balance and reducing excessive inflammation. This review explores the pathophysiology of sepsis, current treatment challenges, advancements in immunomodulatory agents, and novel approaches for managing the condition. Notably, colostrum and lactoferrin, known for their immunomodulatory properties, exhibit strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Their ability to target both the immune system and pathogens positions them as promising candidates for sepsis treatment. The review reports clinical trial outcomes of colostrum and lactoferrin, their safety profiles, and the implications for future research and clinical practice.
Although immunomodulatory therapies show significant promise in improving sepsis outcomes, successful implementation will require further research, collaboration, and integration into established clinical protocols.