The current concept states that endotoxin, or bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), is a key molecule in the pathogenesis of infection, inflammation, sepsis, and septic shock.

High blood concentration of endotoxin induces an uncontrollable release of a huge number of inflammatory mediators resulting in a life-threatening condition. The current clinical trials have demonstrated that the high level of endotoxin in the systemic circulation correlates with poor clinical outcomes. Over the past 20 years reliable data have been obtained showing a positive clinical effect from LPS hemoperfusion including decreased mortality.