The anatomical record : advances in integrative anatomy and evolutionary biology
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Sepsis causes significant alterations in the hepatic macro- and microcirculation. Diverging views exist on global hepatic blood flow during experimental sepsis because of the large variety in animal and sepsis models. Fluid-resuscitated clinical sepsis is characterized by ongoing liver ischemia due to a defective oxygen extraction despite enhanced perfusion. ⋯ Possible interactions between these mediators are not well understood, and their therapeutic manipulation produces equivocal or disappointing results. Whether and how standard resuscitation therapy influences the hepatic microvascular response to sepsis is unknown. Indirect evidence supports the concept that improving the microcirculation may prevent or ameliorate sepsis-induced organ failure.