Recently published papers: predictors, pressors and poietins

Simple, sensitive and specific predictors of mortality in the critically ill remain elusive goals, and brain natriuretic peptide and venous lactate are the subjects of recent studies. The role of vasopressin in sepsis continues to be the focus of much research interest. Dose ranging studies, potential adverse effects, and selective V1 agonists are discussed below in recent trials. Finally the use of erythropoietin in the critically ill continues to be studied but many continue to urge caution for widespread use outside of clinical trials.