Hormonal status in critically ill patients with or without acute renal failure

Generally, sustained critical illness is characterised by weight loss, muscle wasting and organ system failure. Multiple organ failure (MOF) is a syndrome which has become increasingly apparent in the last decade, as intensive care techniques of organ support have improved. The syndrome constellation suggests that MOF represents a stereotypic response to varying insults, such as unremitting sepsis or sterile inflammation. Unfortunately, the clinical course of MOF is typically complicated by recurrent infections, respiratory distress and liver failure. Also, acute renal failure (ARF) is a frequent accompaniment. As cardiovascular, resiratory and other organ systems fail, and often for prolonged periods, it is not surprising that MOF is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in intensive care units [1]. However, treatment modalities have improved considerably during the last couple of years, and besides artificial ventilation, continuous renal replacement therapy has gained prominence in the treatment of critically ill patients with or without ARF.