Bacterial translocation: effects of artificial feeding.

The most striking observation when reviewing recent literature in the field of bacterial translocation in the intestine is the small number of publications involving human subjects. Although there are some excellent reviews in this field published during the last 2 years, all experimental contributions come from animal experiments. It is therefore crucial to evaluate how valid the animal models are for human pathophysiology. Studies focusing on translocation as a major pathogenic mechanism are urgently needed to help clinicians to make correct decisions concerning protection of the gut and decide upon nutrition in the intensive care unit.