Role of Antithrombin III and Tissue Factor Pathway in the Pathogenesis of Sepsis

Crit Care Clin. 2020 Apr;36(2):255-265. doi: 10.1016/j.ccc.2019.12.002. Epub 2020 Jan 31.

Abstract

The pathobiology of the septic process includes a complex interrelationship between inflammation and the coagulations system. Antithrombin (AT) and tissue factor are important components of the coagulation system and have potential roles in the production and amplification of sepsis. Sepsis is associated with a decrease in AT levels, and low levels are also associated with the development of multiple organ failure and death. Treatment strategies incorporating AT replacement therapy in sepsis and septic shock have not resulted in an improvement in survival or reversal of disseminated intravascular coagulation.

Keywords: Antithrombin; Coagulopathy; Multiple organ failure; Sepsis; Tissue factor.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antithrombin III / metabolism*
  • Critical Illness
  • Humans
  • Multiple Organ Failure / etiology
  • Multiple Organ Failure / prevention & control
  • Sepsis / metabolism*
  • Sepsis / physiopathology*
  • Sepsis / therapy
  • Shock, Septic / metabolism
  • Shock, Septic / physiopathology
  • Shock, Septic / therapy
  • Thromboplastin / metabolism*

Substances

  • Antithrombin III
  • Thromboplastin