Conclusions
Continuous 4% albumin is effective in reducing care-related infections in shock patients by increasing the availability of antimicrobial vasostatin-I. This might guide future care of shock patients.
Results
Over 18 days, we recorded a decrease in colonization (four vs 12 episodes; p = 0.035) and nosocomial infection frequency (two vs 13 episodes; p = 0.002) in patients infused continuously 4% albumin versus controls. In vitro, albumin interacts with the disulfide loop vasostatin-I (residues 17-40) and continuous 4% albumin infusion restores its oxidative status required for antimicrobial activity. Conclusions: Continuous 4% albumin is effective in reducing care-related infections in shock patients by increasing the availability of antimicrobial vasostatin-I. This might guide future care of shock patients.