Global Longitudinal Strain Assessment in Cardiogenic Shock During Sepsis

Cardiogenic shock is a condition of low cardiac output that represents the end of a progressive deterioration of cardiac function. The main cause is ischemic heart disease but there are several causes of non-ischemic nature including sepsis. Sepsis is characterized by a picture of organ dysfunction caused by an altered response of the body to an infection. Its most serious form is septic shock, defined as a picture of sepsis in which the underlying abnormalities in the cardiovascular system and cellular metabolism are such as to increase mortality. An organ failure correlates directly with the function of others and this interdependence is especially evident when a cardiovascular failure is established. 3 Cardiac dysfunction in sepsis can be defined as that of a syndrome characterized by low cardiac output not related to myocardial ischemia. The use of levosimendan in cardiogenic shock during sepsis was first described in a 2005 case report. Since then there have been small studies and other case reports that have shown improvements in right and left ventricular contractility, ventricular coupling, cardiopulmonary performance, global oxygen transport, renal and splanchnic perfusion when compared to dobutamine and placebo. Other beneficial effects of this drug have emerged, including an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiapoptotic action with a possible protection from ischemia-reperfusion damage. The present study aims to evaluate the correct use of levosimendan, after the occurrence of cardiogenic shock on a low cardiac index has been ascertained, with the aim of weaning from inotropic drugs in infusion.