Introduction to a new clinical entity: the multiple organ dysfunction syndrome in the elderly

Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome in the elderly (MODSE) is an important syndrome in the critical care of elderly patients. MODSE is defined as simultaneous or sequential dysfunction or failure of two or more organs on the top of advanced age and chronic multiple organ dysfunction. MODSE is triggered by precipitating factors such as infection (usually pulmonary infection) trauma, surgery, etc. It occurs in two phases. In the early phase, dysfunction of multiple organs ( MODE) occurs, and in the later or severe phase, multiple organ failure (MOFE) occurs. MODSE is the most common cause of mortality in the critically ill elderly patient. It is important to understand its clinical characteristics and elucidate its pathogenesis in order to reduce mortality and improve Quality of life for these patients.