Angiotensin II and angiotensin II receptor 2 levels can predict shock and mortality in septic patients.

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the place of angiotensin II and its receptors in the prognosis of septic patients.

METHODS

Patients with sepsis and septic shock were included in the study group. The control group consisted of patients who were followed up in the ICU and had no sepsis/septic shock. Plasma angiotensin II, angiotensin receptor-1 and 2 (AT-1, AT-2) levels were evaluated first and third days.

RESULTS

Angiotensin II levels were significantly lower in the septic shock and non-survivor. AT-1 levels were lower in all septic patients on the first day compared to the control. While AT-1 levels on the third day decreased in the septic shock group, it increased in the sepsis group. AT-2 levels were significantly higher in sepsis, and lower in septic shock compared to controls on the first day. Angiotensin II (95%, 82%) and AT-2 levels (100%, 87%) were observed to have high sensitivity and specificity in demonstrating the presence of shock in septic patients. Angiotensin II and AT-1/AT-2 ratios were observed to have high sensitivity and low specificity in the development of mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

In septic patients, angiotensin II, AT-2 and AT-1/AT-2 levels can predict the probability of shock development and mortality.