Nonhomogeneous redistribution of mesenteric blood flow after tolazoline during group B streptococcal sepsis in piglets.

The effect of tolazoline (Tz) on mesenteric blood flow was evaluated in a piglet model of group B streptococcal (GBS) sepsis. GBS infusion decreased cardiac output and mesenteric blood flow equivalently, while increasing systemic and mesenteric vascular resistance. At three doses between 2 and 25 mg/kg, Tz increased cardiac output and decreased systemic vascular resistance. However, at no dose did Tz improve the diminished mesenteric artery blood flow which accompanied GBS sepsis. The potential use of Tz in neonatal sepsis may be limited by its nonhomogeneous redistribution of blood flow.