This monograph details the pathophysiology of the acute catabolic state and the therapeutic options available. It focuses particularly on the changes that take place in the early stages of the catabolic state, within and between different organ systems.

This text details the pathophysiology of the acute catabolic state and the therapeutic options available. It focuses in particular on the changes that take place in the early stage of the catabolic state, within and between different organ systems. The contributors describe metabolic changes that are of the utmost importance for the outcome in patients with acute illness or trauma. There is also detailed discussion of possible strategies for modifying the acute response, the use of which has substantially changed available treatment in surgery and other catabolic states. Possible future investigational strategies are outlined and discussed.