Endothelial Cell Function in the Critically Ill

Abstract

Our concepts have changed markedly since W. Harvey's original description of the vasculature as a passive conduit for blood to the vital organs. The endothelium of the vasculature represents a complex organ synthesizing a number of mediators and interacting actively with other cellular elements including circulating white blood cells and platelets and infiltrating macrophages. The endothelium can directly influence the vascular smooth muscle, thereby regulating the distribution of blood flow to the cells. The total endothelium surface area is estimated to cover six tennis courts and to weigh 1--1.5 kg in an adult.