α-Atrial natriuretic peptide, cyclic guanosine monophosphate, and endothelin in plasma as markers of myocardial depression in human septic shock

ObjectiveTo assess the value of α-atrial natriuretic peptide (α-ANP), second messenger cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP,) and endothelin as markers of myocardial depression in septic shock.DesignProspective observational study.SettingMedical intensive care unit (ICU) of a university hospital.Pat