Erythrocyte 2,3-diphosphoglycerate in endotoxic shock in the subhuman primate: response to fluid and-or methylprednisolone succinate.

The effects of shock as a result of Escherichia coli endotoxin on certain hemodynamic and biochemical parameters and mortality were studied in the baboon. The ability of methylprednisolone succinate (MPS) in massive doses and/or rapid infusion of a buffered electrolyte solution to influence the results was then examined. Shock secondary to Escherichia coli endotoxin was associated with a decrease in RBC 2,3-DPG. This fall in RBC 2,3-DPG was not significantly influenced by MPS. Likewise, MPS did not prevent the changes in oxygen metabolism or systemic hemodynamics, nor was it associated with any decrease in mortality associated with endotoxic shock. Buffered electrolyte solution therapy improved both hemodynamics and mortality, but did not significantly protect against changes in RBC 2,3-DPG.