Participation of sympathoadrenal system in endotoxin shock

Abstract

Experiments have been carried out on dogs, cats, and monkeys to determine the role of the sympathoadrenal system in endotoxin shock. It was found that hepatosplanchnic pooling in the dog after endotoxin is not dependent on an intact nerve supply to the abdominal viscera or the presence of the adrenals. Splanchnic denervation and adrenalectomy did not prevent portal hypertension, systemic hypotension, or intestinal hemorrhagic necrosis after endotoxin in the dog. Increases in foreleg vascular resistance and leg weight were found to be independent of the presence of the adrenals. Humorally induced vasoconstriction after endotoxin in cat and monkey preparations was found to be minimal. Hemoconcentration did not occur and net losses in weight were observed in cat and monkey perfused foreleg preparations. No evidence was obtained assigning detrimental roles to the sympathoadrenal system in the dog, cat, or monkey in this form of shock. Findings underscore the view that the primary mechanisms causing death from endotoxin may vary with the species.