Role of Prostaglandins and Related Compounds in the Pathophysiology of Endotoxic and Septic Shock

摘要

Prostaglandins and related compounds are potent, endogenously generated mediators of importance in the pathophysiologic events in experimental endotoxic and septic shock. Drugs that prevent prostaglandin or thromboxane synthesis afford protection against some of the sequelae of acute endotoxicosis or septicemia. Well-controlled clinical trials are necessary to determine if manipulation of arachidonic acid metabolism can improve the outcome of sepsis and septic shock in humans.