[Early endotoxin tolerance--a preventive concept against infection].

After induction of early-phase endotoxin tolerance in a porcine endotoxin shock model over a period of 3-4 days a highly significant survival-time extension (p < or = 0.0001) was achieved. The protective effect of the unspecific tolerant state led to a significant enhancement of cardiorespiratory parameters during the continuous endotoxin challenge. However, the level of tolerance is relative and can be overcome by increasing the endotoxin challenge dose.