You are answering a USMLE-style medical question. Question: A 26-year-old woman developed rapidly progressive septic shock associated with nuchal rigidity, petechiae, and purpura. She tested positive for both Kernig and Brudzinski's signs and shows signs of confusion, dyspnea, and hypotension. The blood culture results confirmed the presence of Neisseria meningitidis, and a complete blood count (CBC) revealed leukocytosis. Which one of the cytokines below takes part in the pathogenesis of septic shock? Options: A) Tumor necrosis factor-α B) Interleukin-5 C) Interleukin-12 D) Interleukin-4 Reply with ONLY the letter of the correct answer (A, B, C, or D). No explanation.