Critical care clinics
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Critical care clinics · Apr 2000
ReviewImmunologic response to infection and its role in septic shock.
In summary, the invasion of bacteria across mucosal surfaces is met with a vigorous host response that includes complement, antibody formation (thymus-independent and eventually thymus-dependent), phagocytosis, production of antibacterial peptides and proteins, the production of cytokines that result in activation of phagocytes and endothelial cells to attract more phagocytes, and the formation of fibrin to limit the spread of infection. The best summary of immune response to infection was written by Lewis Thomas in 1974.
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Early recognition of the sepsis syndrome, prompt administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics, surgical intervention when indicated, and aggressive supportive care in intensive care units remain the therapeutic strategies for patients with sepsis. Antibiotic selection is based on many factors including the most probable source of infection, the most likely pathogens, and knowledge of antibiotic susceptibility patterns for community- and hospital-acquired infections. ⋯ As our understanding of the pathophysiology of sepsis progresses, perhaps newer modalities will improve clinical outcome. At this time, preventive strategies, including optimal vaccine use, effective infection control practices, judicious use and care of intravascular lines and indwelling urinary catheters, and appropriate use of anti-infective agents to prevent microbial resistance should be used to decrease the incidence of infection and subsequent sepsis.
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Critical care clinics · Apr 2000
ReviewAcute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome in sepsis and septic shock.
Sepsis remains the leading cause of ARDS, and ARDS is still an often fatal condition. With our expanding knowledge of the pathobiologic mechanisms and the relationship between these two entities, early recognition, treatment, and prevention of sepsis may prevent or hasten recovery from ARDS. Understanding the biologic markers involved in the complex inflammatory response of sepsis and acute lung injury offers the possibility of future investigations to target treatment based on these mediators.
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Despite our increased understanding of the biochemistry and physiology of sepsis, the treatment of septic shock remains a challenge. Initial management of septic shock entails urgent and emergent stabilization of the patient followed by broad-spectrum, empiric antibiotic therapy. ⋯ Adjunctive therapies and monitoring strategies may be helpful in preventing complications in the intensive care setting. Additional research and clinical trials are needed to identify supportive interventions that may affect the outcome of the septic patient.
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This article examines the spectrum of metabolic alterations in sepsis and septic shock. The clinical manifestations, neuroendocrine control, and bioenergetics of the "ebb" and "flow" phases of sepsis are reviewed. Characteristic alterations in carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism induced by sepsis are outlined. Finally, the implications of these metabolic alterations for the nutritional support of patients with sepsis are discussed.