Vasopressin effective in reversing catecholamine-resistant vasodilatory shock

A patient with perforated appendicitis developed progressive vasodilatory s hock which was complicated by perioperative acute myocardial infarction. Ca rdiovascular support included dopamine infusion, and later, intra-aortic ba lloon counterpulsation balloon pump and noradrenaline and dobutamine infusi on. Vasopressin was introduced as a final attempt to reverse the refractory shock and was associated with recovery. The experience with this case sugg ests that vasopressin mall be a valuable adjunct to the treatment of catech olamine-resistant vasodilatory shock.