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Reports on sepsis findings from Erasme University provide new insights



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2008 JAN 17 -- "Severe sepsis is common and increasing in incidence. Mortality rates remain high," researchers in Brussels, Belgium report.

"Discovery of the link between the coagulation system and the inflammatory response to sepsis led to the development of drotrecogin alfa (activated). This recombinant form of the natural anticoagulant, activated protein C, was shown to reduce 28-day mortality from severe sepsis in a large, randomised, placebo-controlled, multi-centre Phase III study. Although subsequent studies have demonstrated that drotrecogin alfa (activated) is not of benefit to all patients with severe sepsis, it does reduce mortality rates in patients at a high risk of death. Drotrecogin alfa (activated) is associated with an increased risk of bleeding. Recent studies have shed light on its mode of action, which is primarily attributed today to cytoprotective effects especially on the endothelium with improved microcirculation," wrote J.L. Vincent and colleagues, Erasme University.

The researchers concluded: "Ongoing studies will help define which patients are most likely to benefit, perhaps with the help of biochemical markers."

Vincent and colleagues published their study in Expert Opinion on Biological Therapy (Drotrecogin alfa (Activated): the treatment for severe sepsis? Expert Opinion on Biological Therapy, 2007;7(11):1763-1777).

For additional information, contact J.L. Vincent, Free University of Brussels, Erasme University, Dept. of Intensive Care, 808 Route Lennik, B-1070 Brussels, Belgium.

Publisher contact information for the journal Expert Opinion on Biological Therapy is: Informa Healthcare, Telephone House, 69-77 Paul Street, London EC2A 4LQ, England.

Keywords: Belgium, Brussels, Antisepsis, Biological Therapy, Biotherapy, Bloodstream Infection, Drotrecogin alfa, Sepsis, Septicemia, Treatment, Erasme University.

This article was prepared by Blood Weekly editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2008, Blood Weekly via NewsRx.com.