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Design of Cecal Ligation and Puncture and Intranasal Infection Dual Model of Sepsis-Induced Immunosuppression
Published on: June 15, 2019
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Corticosteroids in sepsis
Jihene Mahmoud1, Marie Alice Bovy1, Nicholas Heming1,2,3
1Department of Intensive Care, Raymond Poincaré Hospital, APHP University Versailles Saint Quentin-University Paris Saclay, Garches, France.
Journal of Intensive Medicine
|November 3, 2025
Summary
Corticosteroids, used in supraphysiological doses, offer specific sepsis therapy by modulating immune responses and improving organ function. This treatment can reduce mortality and shorten hospital stays for sepsis patients.
Area of Science:
- Critical Care Medicine
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Sepsis remains a significant global health challenge with high mortality.
- Current sepsis management relies on infection control and organ support, lacking specific therapies beyond corticosteroids.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the latest data and evidence on corticosteroid use in sepsis patients.
- To elucidate the molecular and cellular mechanisms of corticosteroids in sepsis.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of recent scientific literature on corticosteroids and sepsis.
- Analysis of genomic and non-genomic effects of corticosteroids on immune and organ systems.
Main Results:
- Corticosteroids reprogram immune cells, restore endothelial and vascular smooth muscle function, and improve organ perfusion.
- Supraphysiological corticosteroid doses (approx. 200 mg/day hydrocortisone equivalent for 5-15 days) reduce vasopressor, respiratory, and renal support needs.
- Treatment accelerates organ function recovery, shortens ICU and hospital stays, and improves short- to mid-term survival.
Conclusions:
- Corticosteroids represent a specific therapeutic option for sepsis, improving clinical outcomes.
- Further research is needed on pediatric sepsis, predictive biomarkers, and long-term sequelae of corticosteroid treatment.
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