Metabolic response to injury and role of anabolic hormones

To provide a short review of the literature describing the hypermetabolic response to injury and potential treatments. Associated findings include changes in inflammatory mediators and secreted hormones.

Treatments should be aimed at decreasing the response and potentially the use of anabolic agents. Of note, recent interest in the hyperglycemic response to injury and insulin treatment will be highlighted.

The current metabolic care of the burned patient including nutrition is now being unfolded. It is relatively clear that anabolic treatment should be considered in all those with severe injury. Timing of the treatment, however, is still a topic of discussion.