Current opinion in critical care
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Although the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in the maintenance of health, it is hypothesized to drive morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients. This review describes the relationship between the gut microbiome and the immune system in critical illness. ⋯ The gut microbiome is dramatically altered in the ICU. In light of constant crosstalk between the microbiome and the host immune system, the pathobiome may play a key mechanistic role in driving a maladaptive response in critically ill patients. The pathobiome represents a potential therapeutic target in the management of critical illness whereby restoration of a healthier microbiome may directly alter the host inflammatory response, which could lead to improved patient outcomes.
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Timely and adequate management are the key priorities in the care of peritonitis. This review focuses on the cornerstones of the medical support: source control and antiinfective therapies. ⋯ Early clinical diagnosis, timely and adequate source control and antiinfective therapy are the essential pillars of the management of peritonitis in ICU patients.
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Progress has been made in our understanding of gut dysfunction in critical illness. This review will outline new findings and give perspectives based on previous knowledge and concurrent advances in nutrition. ⋯ Gut dysfunction is associated with poor outcomes, but it remains uncertain whether strategies to improve gut function will influence survival and recovery.