Recently published papers: putting fluids in and taking fluids out

Further work on the use of albumin in the intensive care unit is discussed. The interesting pilot study by Dubois and colleagues examines the potential benefits for albumin supplementation in the hypoalbuminaemic critically ill patient. Maintaining the fluid theme, we discuss recent work on factors influencing post-intensive care unit blood transfusion as well as another study on erythropoietin. Finally, a large multicentred trial comparing continuous venovenous haemofiltration with intermittent haemodialysis is outlined, the results of which pose more questions than answers.