[Predictive value of metabolic profiles in multiple trauma].

An increase in the lactate:pyruvate ratio as well as in serum gluocse levels and a decrease in base excess values permit an early prediction of vital outcome in severely traumatized patients. Further laboratory data such as enzymes, bilirubin, and amino-acid concentrations, however, demonstrate significant differences between survivors and nonsurvivros at a later stage, i.e., from the 6th day on.