New horizons (Baltimore, Md.)
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Liver failure is commonly encountered in the critically ill, septic patient. This hepatic dysfunction occurs as a wide spectrum of abnormalities, ranging from mild chemical derangements to fulminant liver failure. The syndrome of multiple system organ system failure due to sepsis is often complicated by alterations in splanchnic/hepatic function. ⋯ The functions of these pathophysiologically produced factors include extensive autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine effects. Evidence suggests that adequate resuscitation during sepsis, which is measured by systemic end-points, may result in inadequate splanchnic blood flow and oxygen delivery. The addition of serial measurements of splanchnic end-points may limit the hepatic failure encountered in multiple system organ failure due to sepsis.