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Updated: May 10, 2026
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A Controlled Mouse Model for Neonatal Polymicrobial Sepsis
Published on: January 27, 2019
Septic neonate rescued by polymyxin B hemoperfusion
Eiji Hirakawa1, Satoshi Ibara, Takuya Tokuhisa
1Division of Neonatology, Perinatal Medical Center, Kagoshima City Hospital, Kagoshima, Japan. nicuhirakawa@gmail.com
Summary
Severe Escherichia coli sepsis can be life-threatening. Polymyxin B hemoperfusion effectively removed endotoxins, improving patient outcomes in a severe sepsis case.
Area of Science:
- Critical care medicine
- Infectious diseases
- Nephrology
Background:
- Group B Streptococcus sepsis is manageable with antibiotics, but Escherichia coli sepsis is rising.
- Escherichia coli sepsis, a Gram-negative infection, carries a poor prognosis due to endotoxin release.
- Antibiotic therapy alone may be insufficient for sepsis due to inflammatory response and hemodynamic instability.
Observation:
- A case of severe septic shock caused by E. coli was reported.
- The patient received conventional treatment alongside Polymyxin B hemoperfusion.
- Polymyxin B hemoperfusion adsorbs endotoxins and cannabinoids.
Findings:
- Concomitant use of Polymyxin B hemoperfusion rapidly decreased the need for catecholamines.
- The patient recovered without short-term neurological or respiratory complications.
- This suggests Polymyxin B hemoperfusion's efficacy in managing severe E. coli sepsis.
Implications:
- Polymyxin B hemoperfusion may represent an innovative therapy for severe sepsis.
- This treatment approach could potentially improve patient outcomes in cases of E. coli-induced septic shock.
- Further research into Polymyxin B hemoperfusion for sepsis is warranted.
