Use of an endotoxin adsorber in the treatment of severe abdominal sepsis

Abstract

Methods for lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (endotoxin) reduction have been proposed as one way to improve the treatment of Gram-negative sepsis. Here we present a case with severe Gram-negative sepsis, treated with a novel device for LPS adsorption (Alteco LPS Adsorber, Alteco Medical AB, Lund, Sweden). After LPS adsorption, the level of LPS in the patient's bloodstream was almost eliminated: from 1.44 EU/ml before treatment to 0.03 EU/ml post treatment). The procalcitonin level and inflammatory cytokines were concurrently reduced. Also, an obvious improvement in the status of the patient's hemodynamics was seen. Forty-five days after treatment the patient is still alive. In conclusion, LPS adsorption may represent a significant improvement in the treatment of Gram-negative sepsis and further studies are planned.