Medizinische Klinik, Intensivmedizin und Notfallmedizin
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Med Klin Intensivmed Notfmed · Sep 2012
Review[Hyperglycemic crisis in patients with diabetes mellitus].
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) are the two most acute life-threatening complications of diabetes mellitus and in most cases treatment should be administered in an intensive care unit. Clinically, DKA and HHS differ according to the presence of metabolic acidosis; however, the treatment of DKA and HHS is similar. The main principles are intravenous administration of insulin and correction of fluid and electrolyte abnormalities which are typically present. By the application of a standardized treatment algorithm a low mortality rate can be achieved.
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For decades, techniques for extracorporeal lung support, such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), have offered in specialized centres the possibility to completely or partly substitute lung function, thus, facilitating healing. Initially the application of ECMO was associated with severe complications, but significant technical progress in recent years has led to the development of safer systems and promotes a wider distribution of the technique. Supported by recent, positive study data, ECMO has become a promising option for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) therapy in specialized centers. Further developments and modifications, such as pumpless devices for extracorporeal lung support have the potential of becoming an interesting option for intensive care medicine - however, data of prospective studies showing efficacy are still not available.
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The clinical signs and symptoms of primary adrenal insufficiency are unspecific often causing a delayed diagnosis or even misdiagnosis. In the diagnostic work-up the short synacthen test is regarded as the gold standard. Hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone are the preferred therapy for Addison's disease. ⋯ Acute adrenal failure (adrenal crisis), which might be the first manifestation of adrenal insufficiency, is a life-threatening situation requiring immediate glucocorticoid administration and fluid substitution. The most common causes for an adrenal crisis are gastrointestinal infections and fever and discontinuation of glucocorticoid therapy. This article gives an up-to-date overview of diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of Addison's disease.