Activated Protein C and Microcirculation

THE Activated Protein C (aPC) TREATMENT IMPROVES MICROCIRCULATION IN SEVERE SEPSIS/ SEPTIC SHOCK SYNDROME

Objective: to test the hypothesis that recombinant activated protein C (aPC) therapy improves the microcirculation of severe septic patients.

Design: Prospective, open study. Setting: University 12-beds intensive care unit. Patients: Septic patients with at least two sepsis-induced organ failures occurring within 48 hours of the onset of sepsis were included in a one year period.

Interventions: Patients who had no contraindication to aPC administration received aPC at a dose of 24 mcg/kg/h for 96 hours. Patients with contraindications to aPC infusion were considered as controls.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Septic patients with at least two sepsis-induced organ failures occurring within 48 hours of the onset of sepsis

Exclusion Criteria:

• hematologic or advanced malignancies
• liver cirrhosis
• severely impaired consciousness (Glasgow Coma Scale score <7 of 15)
• therapeutic limitations (do-not-resuscitate orders)