[Changes in erythrocyte membrane resistance during the development of endotoxin shock].

The authors studied the changes in the resistance of red cell membranes during the development of endotoxic shock in rabbits. Red cell resistance to hydrochloric acid, saponins, and osmotic distension diminished. The causes of increased sensitivity of the red cells to the altering factors are disturbed permeability and activation of peroxidation of the membrane lipids due to the direct effect of the endotoxin.