The interaction between infectious agents and toxins can be complex. Certain toxins can exacerbate the effects of infectious agents or vice versa. For instance:
- Endotoxins: These toxins, part of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, can trigger severe immune responses. - Exotoxins: Produced by bacteria like Clostridium botulinum, these are potent and can cause significant damage to host tissues. - Cytokine Storms: Severe infections can cause an overproduction of cytokines, leading to systemic inflammation and toxicity.
