The splanchnic organs as the source of toxic mediators in shock.

The splanchnic organs, and especially the pancreas and the small intestine, are susceptible to injury during ischemia and shock and the following reperfusion. This particular tissue injury is associated with a release of cardiotoxic and other toxic mediators which further aggravate the shock condition, leading to further tissue injury etc. Thereby a vicious circle is created, which is likely to contribute to collapse and death.