Anales españoles de pediatría
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To assess adrenal function in children with sepsis and septic shock with petechiae and to investigate the possible relationship between adrenal hypofunction, sonographic diagnosis of massive bilateral adrenal hemorrhage, and other factors available early in this disturbance. ⋯ Plasma cortisol and ACTH levels were increased in children with sepsis and septic shock. Adrenal insufficiency was uncommon. Adrenal insufficiency was associated with severe hemodynamic failure, necrotic purpura, disseminated intravascular coagulopathy, massive bilateral adrenal hemorrhage and high mortality rate.