THROMBOXANE, PROSTAGLANDIN-I2(EPOPROSTENOL), AND THE HEMODYNAMIC-CHANGES IN EQUINE ENDOTOXIN-SHOCK

  • 1 January 1982
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 43  (6) , 999-1002
Abstract
Plasma thromboxane and prostaglandin I2 (epoprostenol) concentrations were correlated with hemodynamic changes occurring in equine endotoxin (Escherichia coli) shock. Also, the effects of flunixin meglumine on plasma concentrations of these prostaglandins relative to hemodynamic changes were determined. Shock was induced in 2 groups, each of 4 anesthetized ponies and in a 3rd group of 2 ponies. Group A ponies were given endotoxin only (and were not treated); group B ponies were given endotoxin and then treated with flunixin meglumine. Group C ponies were treated with flunixin meglumine 5 min before they were given endotoxin. Arterial, pulmonary arterial and central venous pressures were measured and blood samples were collected at 0, 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 3 and 4 h after ponies were given the endotoxin. The plasma thromboxane and prostaglandin I2 concentrations were increased in equine endotoxic shock. Increased thromboxane concentration was associated with the high pulmonary arterial and central venous pressures and low arterial blood pressure in the minutes immediately after the ponies were given endotoxin. The increased prostaglandin I2 concentration was associated with systemic hypotension at 1-2 h after endotoxin. Treatment of ponies with flunixin meglumine after endotoxin was given (group B) prevented the prostaglandin I2 rise and the associated hypotension. Treatment with flunixin meglumine before endotoxin was given prevented the increase of the plasma thromboxane and prostaglandin I2 values, along with the associated hemodynamic changes.