Problems in the treatment of septic shock.

A small review is presented on the problems encountered in the treatment of septic shock. The discussion is focussed on haemodynamic problems. At least three and possibly four haemodynamic mechanisms seem to be involved: peripheral pooling, increased vascular permeability, myocardial failure (right and/or left heart failure) and probably peripheral vascular failure. A method is indicated to study some of these mechanisms.