Understanding Red Blood Cell Rheology in Sepsis and its Role in Clinical Practice. From Biomolecular Aspects to Possible Therapeutic Interventions

Erythrocyte rheology is of interest in understanding microcirculation and oxygen delivery and consumption alterations induced by sepsis and septic shock. Several mechanisms are proposed: (i) direct or indirect RBC membrane alterations, (ii) abnormal intraerythrocytic homeostasis, (iii) RBCs interaction with other cells and extracellular molecules, (iiii) increased reactive species production and altered redox homeostasis. In this review, we describe in part these mechanisms and what’s the impact of these hemorheological disturbances on the outcome and mortality rate. Also, we outline the possible therapeutic interventions and further perspectives regarding sepsis and septic shock management.