Pv-aCO2/Ca-vO2 ratio to detect anaerobic metabolism in septic shock

Prognostic Value and Kinetics of the PvCO2-PaCO2/CaO2-CvO2 Ratio Compared to Arterial Lactate in the Initial Phase of Septic Shock

Observational Avicenna Military Hospital · NCT07096284

We will try the Pv-aCO2/Ca-vO2 ratio to see if it detects anaerobic metabolism early in adults with septic shock.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorAvicenna Military Hospital Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Marrakesh, Marrakesh and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT07096284 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This is an observational study measuring the venous‑arterial CO2 partial pressure difference to arteriovenous O2 content difference (Pv-aCO2/Ca-vO2) in the early phase of septic shock and comparing its kinetics with arterial lactate. Adults meeting Sepsis-3 septic shock criteria who have central venous access in the superior vena cava will have paired arterial and central venous blood gases collected serially after stabilization. The study will calculate the ratio over time and relate its course to lactate changes and patient outcomes. No experimental treatments are given beyond standard care; analyses focus on the prognostic value of the ratio.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Adults over 18 with septic shock (requiring vasopressors to maintain MAP ≥65 mmHg and lactate >2 mmol/L after adequate fluids) who have a central venous catheter in the superior vena cava are ideal candidates.

Not a fit: Patients without central venous access, those whose central line is placed in a femoral position, or patients with conditions other than septic shock are unlikely to be eligible or to benefit from this monitoring approach.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this ratio could give clinicians an earlier blood-test sign of anaerobic metabolism to help guide resuscitation and potentially improve outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Prior small observational studies have suggested the Pv-aCO2/Ca-vO2 ratio can reflect anaerobic metabolism and correlate with outcomes, but larger confirmatory studies remain limited.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Patients aged over 18 years presenting with septic shock, defined as sepsis with persistent hypotension requiring vasopressors to maintain a mean arterial pressure (MAP) ≥ 65 mmHg and lactatemia \> 2 mmol/L despite adequate fluid resuscitation. Sepsis is defined by the presence of a suspected or confirmed infectious source associated with organ dysfunction (neurological, respiratory, renal, hepatic, or hematological). \[Sepsis 3 criteria\]

Exclusion Criteria:

* Absence of central venous access.
* Central venous access not positioned in the superior vena cava (e.g., femoral access).

Where this trial is running

Marrakesh, Marrakesh and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Septic Shocksepsisanaerobic metabolism
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.