Nutritional support in sepsis.

Sepsis induces a complex series of host metabolic adjustments, involving muscle proteolysis and hepatic gluconeogenesis. Successful hemodynamic management of the initial phase of shock has lead to survivors who face the prospect of eventual mortality (50 per cent) from this septic episode one to two weeks later. Surgery and use of antibiotics may minimize the invasive infection and eradicate the source. Continued support in the form of cardiorespiratory, renal, and nutritional support provide time, but these measures are only supportive. Nutrition does allow for important protein synthesis. Essential to eventual survival is the ability of the host to contain and resolve the infective microorganism.