Adrenal blood flow and secretory effects of adrenergic receptor stimulation.

To evaluate effects of adrenergic receptor stimulation on regional adrenal blood flow and secretion, pentobarbital-anesthetized dogs (n = 5-6/group) received the beta-agonist isoproterenol (group I), the alpha 1-agonist phenylephrine (group II), or the alpha 2-agonist dexmedetomidine (group III). Measurements of adrenal cortical (CQ) and medullary (MQ) blood flow (radiolabeled microspheres) and catecholamine secretion were made before and during agonist infusion. Isoproterenol increased catecholamine secretion but had no direct effect on MQ or CQ.

Negative chronotropic factor in patients with fungemia.

Objective: To study the effect of serum from patients with fungemia and control patients on sinoatrial node function.

Design: Prospective, observational study.

Setting: Surgical ICU in a university hospital.

Hyperadrenergic states.

Objective: To review the physiologic and pathophysiologic hyperadrenergic states and the pharmacologic use of sympathomimetic agents.

Data Sources: Pharmacologic and physiologic studies in experimental animals and humans.

Data Extraction/synthesis: Plasma catecholamines are increased in a variety of clinical situations.

The role of anesthetic induction agents and neuromuscular blockade in the endotracheal intubation of trauma victims.

Management of extensive trauma often requires immediate tracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation. The role of anesthetic induction agents and neuromuscular blockade in the airway management of the trauma victim is disputed. To better define the role of these agents in the acute management of trauma, the adult trauma registry of The Johns Hopkins Hospital was reviewed to determine the frequency of use of these agents in acute airway management and to assess the effect of these agents on the incidence of complications.