Introduction
In the acute phase of sepsis several potential mechanisms may change the hemoglobin (Hb) concentration. On the one hand, endothelial activation may lead to increased vascular permeability and fluid sequestration to the interstitium, leading to hemoconcentration. On the other hand, degradation of the glycocalyx has been reported [1]. Shedding of this carbohydrate-rich layer with an estimated thickness of 0.2 to 0.5 µm may lead to a substantial increase of the intravascular space, and thus to decrease of Hb concentration [2]. The aim of this study is to determine whether there is a decrease in Hb in the acute phase of sepsis.