[The function of red blood cells during experimental hemorrhagic and endotoxic shock]

The changes of P50, 2, 3-DPG, intracellular ATP, and erythrocyte deformability as function of red blood cells during hemorrhagic and endotoxic shock were studied in 12 anesthetized mongrel dogs. Hypotension due to hemorrhagic shock was induced by removing 40 ml.kg-1 of blood in 30 minutes. The function of red blood cells remained normal during hemorrhagic shock, because P50 was unchanged and 2, 3-DPG decreased slightly, whereas intracellular ATP increased. Endotoxin shock was induced using a 30-minute continuous infusion of Escherichia coli 055 endotoxin 5 mg.kg-1. Levels of 2, 3-DPG, and intracellular ATP decreased significantly, and P50 tended to decrease. These data suggest that the disturbance in the function of red blood cells may be causing dysfunction of oxygen metabolism in tissues in these dogs.