cytokine storm

[ sahy-tuh-kahyn stawrm ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

an overreaction of the immune system, in which an excess of cytokines triggers an onslaught of white blood cells that swarm an infected area of the body, resulting in inflammation, possible tissue damage, and in extreme cases, organ failure:
A cytokine storm in the lungs of a COVID-19 patient can draw hungry white blood cells into the spaces between air sacs, blocking oxygen from reaching the blood, which can prove fatal.

First recorded in 1990–95

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