Inflammation
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We prospectively studied (1) the relationships between angiogenic factors, their soluble receptors and organ dysfunction and (2) the effects of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)-induced platelet consumption, thrombin generation, and tissue hypoxia on the expression of the factors and receptors. Fifty patients with sepsis were classified into two subgroups: 37 patients with DIC and 13 patients without DIC. DIC patients showed higher Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores, the prevalence of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) and more increased soluble fibrin and lactate levels. ⋯ The VEGF levels showed a marked correlation with the platelet counts. Soluble fibrin and lactate levels independently predicted increases in the levels of VEGF, sVEGFR1, and Ang2 in DIC patients. In conclusion, VEGF, sVEGFR1, Ang2, and Ang1/Ang2, especially Ang2, may have roles in the development of MODS in sepsis associated with DIC, and VEGF, sVEGFR1, and Ang2 serum levels correlated with the extent of DIC-induced platelet consumption, thrombin generation, and blood lactate levels.