Corticosteroids in Pediatric Septic Shock: A Narrative Review
Author Information
Author(s): Rulli Immacolata, Carcione Angelo Mattia, D’Amico Federica, Quartarone Giuseppa, Chimenz Roberto, Gitto Eloisa
Primary Institution: University Hospital of Messina
Hypothesis
What is the efficacy of corticosteroid therapy in pediatric septic shock?
Conclusion
The literature does not provide clear evidence on the efficacy of corticosteroids in pediatric septic shock, with their impact on mortality and severity remaining controversial.
Supporting Evidence
- Corticosteroids probably reduce 28-day mortality compared to placebo or standard therapy.
- Children with septic shock may gain more survival benefits from steroid therapy than those with less severe sepsis.
- Hydrocortisone treatment was associated with a longer duration of multi-organ failure in children with immunoparalysis.
Takeaway
This study looks at whether giving steroids helps kids with severe infections called septic shock, but the results are mixed and not very clear.
Methodology
A narrative review of literature from January 2013 to December 2023, selecting 63 studies from 399 articles based on specific keywords.
Potential Biases
The narrative nature of the review may introduce bias due to selective reporting of studies.
Limitations
The review includes studies of varying quality, which may affect the robustness of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 0-18 years with septic shock.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.041
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.84 to 0.99
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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