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Updated: May 3, 2026

Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
Published on: August 30, 2018
New trends in polymyxin B hemoperfusion: from 2006 to 2013
1Division of Nephrology-Hypertension, University of California, San Diego, Calif., USA.
Abstract:
Endotoxin, one of the principal components on the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, is considered a key and early component in the pathogenesis of sepsis. Polymyxin B bound to polystyrene fibers (PMX) is a medical device capable of removing circulating endotoxin by adsorption. The most comprehensive analysis to date of clinical experience with this device remains a meta-analysis of 28 studies between 1998 and 2006. This showed that PMX hemoperfusion was associated with improved blood pressure and a reduction in dopamine dose, improved PaO2/FiO2 ratio and lower mortality. Since this meta-analysis, over 50 additional studies on PMX have been published. The majority are observational, with small sample sizes. Notable among the newer studies is the increasing interest in the use of PMX therapy in interstitial pneumonias and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, as well as in longer treatment duration and earlier initiation of PMX therapy in an attempt to further improve clinical outcomes. These observational data highlight important aspects of PMX therapy worthy of more rigorous investigation in future studies.
Insights
Polymyxin B (PMX) hemoperfusion effectively removes endotoxin, improving sepsis patient outcomes like blood pressure and mortality. Newer studies explore PMX for lung conditions and extended treatment durations.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Critical Care Medicine
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Endotoxin from Gram-negative bacteria is crucial in sepsis pathogenesis.
- Polymyxin B (PMX) hemoperfusion is an extracorporeal method for endotoxin removal.
- Previous meta-analysis (1998-2006) showed PMX improved hemodynamic and respiratory parameters and reduced mortality in sepsis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize recent clinical data on Polymyxin B (PMX) hemoperfusion.
- To identify emerging applications and trends in PMX therapy.
- To highlight areas for future research in endotoxin removal.
Main Methods:
- Review of over 50 studies published since the 2006 meta-analysis.
- Analysis of observational data focusing on clinical outcomes.
- Examination of new therapeutic indications and treatment strategies for PMX.
Main Results:
- PMX hemoperfusion demonstrated benefits in blood pressure, dopamine requirements, oxygenation, and mortality in earlier studies.
- Recent observational studies indicate growing interest in PMX for interstitial pneumonias and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
- Trends suggest longer treatment durations and earlier initiation of PMX therapy.
Conclusions:
- Polymyxin B hemoperfusion remains a relevant therapy for endotoxin removal in sepsis.
- Emerging data suggests potential benefits in non-sepsis related pulmonary conditions.
- Further rigorous studies are needed to validate newer applications and optimize PMX treatment protocols.
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