Increased thromboxane B2 levels in the plasma of burned and septic burned patients.

Levels of both thromboxane B2 and 6-keto-prostaglandin-F1a, the stable metabolites of thromboxane A2 and prostacyclin, respectively, were quantitated in plasma samples from burn patients at various times postinjury. Our results indicate that, although thromboxane B2 levels were elevated throughout the burn course, quite large increases occurred both in the acute stage (less than three days postinjury) and during septic episodes. The results of our study demonstrate that, at the same time thromboxane B2 levels were elevated, 6-keto-prostaglandin-F1a levels were unchanged and remained at control levels. Increased production of thromboxane B2 without a concomitant increase in 6-keto-prostaglandin-F1a in the plasma of burn patients gives support to the hypothesis that elevated thromboxane A2 production contributes to post-thermal injury systemic responses, both in the acute phase as well as during sepsis.