Study of Pituitary Hormone Function in ICU Survivors After Septic Shock Recovery Observing Hormone Changes at ICU Discharge and After 6 Months

What this Trial Is About

This research investigates pituitary gland function in adults who have recovered from prolonged septic shock after an intensive care unit ICU stay. Septic shock can cause poor blood flow and damage to the pituitary, a gland important for hormone regulation. The study aims to determine how common pituitary hormone problems are at ICU discharge and whether these problems persist, improve, or newly develop six months later. This knowledge could influence follow-up care for ICU survivors. Participants include adults aged 18 to 80 who have recovered from septic shock requiring vasopressors for over 24 hours and an ICU stay longer than 7 days, as well as a comparison group without septic shock but with similar ICU stays. The study collects blood samples at ICU discharge and again six months later to measure various pituitary hormones, including cortisol, ACTH, sex hormones, thyroid hormones, and growth factors. Those with borderline cortisol levels will have an additional stimulation test. Participants will be interviewed by phone three months after discharge to assess quality of life and symptoms related to pituitary dysfunction. Hormone levels and quality of life assessments will be repeated six months post-discharge. Researchers will analyze hormone changes over time and relate findings to participants clinical history and treatments. The study lasts approximately six months for each participant, focusing on hormone function and long-term recovery after septic shock.

Pituitary Function After Recovery From Septic Shock Among ICU Survivors