Quantitative Indicies of the Shock Syndrome
Abstract
The present studies demonstrate the usefulness of routine measurements of plasma colloid osmotic pressure (c. o. p.) both as a prognostic index of the course of the shock syndrome and as a guide for the effectiveness of other therapeutic measures. Severe and protracted hemorrhagic shock is associated with a failure of hemodilution mechanisms and a trend for plasma c. o. p. and blood hematocrit to become dissociated. Endotoxin has a clear-cut action on neurogenic readjustment mechanisms which is masked in anesthetized animals. Survivors of an LD/50 dose of endotoxin, show a blunting of compensatory constrictor responses and thereby permit peripheral blood flow to be maintained more effectively as cardiac output and central pressure fall. Measurements of pressure within the microcirculation reveal that fatal shock is associated with an inability to maintain capillary pressure (P/c) and a progressive narrowing of the pressure differential or hydraulic driving force across the capillary bed. Fluid exchange at the capillary level is disrupted when capillary pressure (P/c) and plasma c. o. p. are no longer in balance and lead to extensive venular stasis during shock. Electrolyte therapy in hemorrhagic shock becomes less effective as the capillary barrier begins to show evidence of increased permeability (filtration coefficients may increase 2 to 3 fold).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 10, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0726030
Entities
People
- Benjamin W. Zweifach
- Kitty Fronek
- Marcos Intaglietta
Organizations
- University of California, San Diego