Changes in ceruloplasmin activity and lactate concentration in patients at high risk of acute organ system failure.

In 241 critically ill patients at a high risk of acute organ system failure (OSF) the activity of ceruloplasmin (CPL) and the concentration of lactate in blood was measured. In patients with acute OSF the lactate concentration is high, and the CPL activity is lower in comparison with patients without OSF. These changes are particularly distinct in nonsurviving patients with OSF. The results are discussed in connection with the development of a tissue oxygen debt and the decrease of antioxidative capacity of blood.