Randomized clinical trial of activated protein C for the treatment of acute lung injury.

ABSTRACT:

Rationale

Microvascular injury, inflammation, and coagulation play critical roles in the pathogenesis of acute lung injury (ALI). Plasma protein C levels are decreased in patients with acute lung injury and are associated with higher mortality and fewer ventilator-free days.

Objectives

To test the efficacy of activated protein C (APC) as a therapy for patients with ALI.

Methods

Eligible subjects were critically ill patients who met the American/European consensus criteria for ALI. Patients with severe sepsis and an APACHE II score of 25 or more were excluded. Participants were randomized to receive APC (24 microg/kg/h for 96 h) or placebo in a double-blind fashion within 72 hours of the onset of ALI. The primary endpoint was ventilator-free days.

Measurements and m

SUBMITTER: Liu KD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2542435 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature