[Use of the rectal-skin temperature gradient for the rapid evaluation of the severity and prediction of the outcomes in critical states].

Results of the monitor observation of the recto-skin temperature gradient in 263 patients are described. Among them 199 patients were in critical condition (traumatic shock--in 51; burn--in 99; cardiogenic shock--in 33; septic collapse--in 11). The elevation of this parameter more than 9 degrees C shows the presence of shock. It can be used for control of the efficiency of the antishock therapy and represents a simple, reliable and highly informative method not requiring an expensive equipment.