Platelet-Activating Factor: Pathophysiological Changes and Therapeutic Implications in Sepsis

New approaches to the treatment of sepsis

The clinical spectrum of sepsis, severe sepsis, and septic shock is responsible for a growing number of deaths and excessive health care expenditures. Until recently, despite multiple clinical trials, no intervention provided a beneficial outcome in septic patients. Within the last 2 years, studies that involved drotrecogin alfa (activated), corticosteroid therapy, and early goal-directed therapy showed efficacy in those with severe sepsis and septic shock. These results have provided optimism for reducing sepsis-related mortality.