Thromboxane A2 and leukotrienes are eicosanoid mediators of shock and ischemic disorders

Several important eicosanoids are produced during ischemic and shock states that may mediate much of the pathogenesis of these disorders. The primary substances of interest are the thromboxanes (e.g., TxA2), and the peptide leukotrienes (e.g., LTC4 and LTD4). TxA2 and the peptide leukotrienes fulfill all the criteria for a mediator in ischemia and shock. They are potent agents that exhibit a multiplicity of serious pathogenic actions. Moreover, inhibition of the formation or actions of TxA2 and the LTs is salutary in shock. TxA2 and the peptide leukotrienes therefore should be considered as important mediators of ischemia and shock, and probably as potent mediators as any known humoral substances in shock.