Survival characteristics during septic shock in 39 baboons

In septic shock nonsurvival is characterized by failure of multiple organ systems. The design of therapeutic measures to increase survival would be enhanced if critical responses could be identified early. Escherichia coli LD100 was given to 39 baboons by IV infusion over two hours followed by different therapy regimens in 31 [2--4]. There were 18 permanent survivors (seven days or more), all receiving antibiotic/steroid combination therapy. Responses of survivors and nonsurvivors were measured and compared during the first 12 hours from onset of infusion. Changes in blood pressure and acid-base parameters were not significantly different between groups. Five responses indicative of permanent survival were lower heart rates, less elevation of blood urea nitrogen, normal blood glucose at eight hours, hyperglycemia with normal insulin at 12 hours, and lower plasma lactate concentrations beginning at four hours.