Cytokines and their endogenous antagonists are released from inflammatory cells during acute pancreatitis, in particular its severe form. They can be found early in the course of the disease as is shown in animal models and in endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP) induced human pancreatitis. Cytokine measurements can predict the course of the disease. This can, however, be achieved using more simple parameters, such as clinical judgement and leucocyte elastase. Anticytokine strategies in the treatment of severe acute pancreatitis should be further evaluated since some positive effects have been found in experimental settings. Interleukin 10 or soluble TNF alpha-receptors may be good candidates. Plasmapheresis seems to change cytokine-anticytokines patterns and this also needs to be explored in controlled trials.