Sepsis and fat metabolism.

Sepsis is a common surgical problem which can induce profound changes in the plasma concentrations of cytokines and hormones, leading to a catabolic state. Hypertriglyceridaemia and increased fat oxidation are the main features of altered fat metabolism encountered in this state. The endogenous catabolism of sepsis can be reduced by administering exogenous lipid emulsions as a source of metabolic fuel, although the changes in lipid metabolism associated with sepsis may affect the handling of these exogenous lipids. An exciting area for future research is an examination of the ability of lipid emulsions to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with sepsis by altering immune responses, in addition to limiting catabolism.