Pathogenesis and Management of Septic Shock

Authors

  • D. Jeffrey Moore Faculty of Medicine Dalhousie University Halifax Nova Scotia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15273/dmj.Vol25No2.3729

Abstract

Despite modern advances in antibiotic therapy and cardiovascular support, septic shock remains a condition plagued by a high mortality rate, estimated at 40- 60%. The pathogenesis of septic shock involves a complex orchestration of cytokines which lead to vasodilation, increased capillary permeability, and disturbances of metabolism. The major clinical features include hypotension, tissue hypoperfusion, myocardial depression, and organ failures. Cur-rent therapy focuses on early broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment, correction of hypovolemia, and appro-priate use of vasopressor and/or inotropic agents. Experimental attempts to intervene in the septic cytokine cascade hold promise, but none have shown a definitive clinical benefit. This review examines the pathogenesis, clinical features, current therapeutic approaches, and future prospects for this serious prob-lem.
Volume 1 DMJ

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How to Cite

Moore, D. J. (1997). Pathogenesis and Management of Septic Shock. DALHOUSIE MEDICAL JOURNAL, 25(2). https://doi.org/10.15273/dmj.Vol25No2.3729

Issue

Vol. 25 No. 2 (1997)

Section

Original Research

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