Adrenal Insufficiency in Meningococcal Sepsis: Bioavailable Cortisol Levels and Impact of Interleukin-6 Levels and Intubation with Etomidate on Adrenal Function and Mortality

Context: Adequate adrenal function is pivotal to survive meningococcal sepsis. Objectives:The objective of the study was to evaluate adrenocortical function in meningococcal disease. Design:This was an observational cohort study. Setting:The study was conducted at a university-affiliated pediatric intensive care unit.Patients: Sixty children with meningococcal sepsis or septic shock participated in the study. Main Outcome Measures:The differences in adrenal function between nonsurvivors (n 8), shock survivors (n 43), and sepsis survivors (n 9) on pediatric intensive care unit admission were measured.