In severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) inflammatory processes foster necrosis, cellular lysis and liberation of vasoactive substances associated with multiple organ failure. The effects of vacuum-assisted closure and Drotrecogin alpha on inflammatory cytokines were evaluated in SAP patients with infected necrosis. Methods: Forty-six patients were included in three groups: Group 1, necrosectomy and abdominal cavity washing; Group 2, necrosectomy plus vacuum-assisted closure (VAC), and Group 3, necrossectomy plus VAC plus Drotrecogin alpha. Immunoreactive IL-32, TNF-α, IL-6, TGF-β and IL-2 cytokines were quantified with ELISA method. Results: IL-32 was significantly increased in all patients, predominantly the non-survivor of Group 3 (p < 0.0001). Group 2 maintained increased IL-32 levels throughout. Peak TNF-α was observed in non-survivors of Groups 1 and 2, with a frank tendency to decrease in Group 3. The IL-6 was increased, sustained throughout the study, peaking at the onset in non-survivors. At the end IL-6 tended to diminish, predominantly in survivors. TNF-α and IL-6 were significantly increased on hospitalization, with a maximum peak in non-survivors of all groups. Initial values of TGF-β were significantly increased in survivors of the three groups, and were significantly diminished in non-survivors; affecting pancreas regeneration and favoring systemic inflammation, with possible multiple-organ repercussions. IL-2 levels were elevated, predominantly in non-survivors of Group 1. There was positive correlation between the increase IL-32 and TNF-α, and negative correlation between the increase in TNF-α and decrease in TGF-β; and, a tendency for negative correlation between the IL-2 increased and TGF-β levels. Conclusion: We found a generalized, sustained inflammatory state that fosters a torpid outcome in SAP patients.