The role of endotoxin in the pathogenesis of experimental multiple system organ failure: a preliminary report

In this study, an animal model of multiple system organ failure (MSOF) in rabbits, engendered by feeding E. coli prior to severe hemorrhagic shock, was used for the purpose of investigating 1) the relationship between lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and MSOF, and 2) the effectiveness of Re-LPS antiserum in preventing MSOF. The results showed that endotoxemia occurred very early, and its degree correlated well with that of organ dysfunction. Re-LPS antiserum administration abated the toxic effects and lowered the incidence of MSOF. These results suggest that sequential analysis of circulating LPS levels may be useful for the early diagnosis of MSOF, and that gut-derived endotoxin might play an important role in the pathogenesis of experimental MSOF.