Wiener klinische Wochenschrift
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Malignant hyperthermia is an autosomal dominant disorder of the skeletal muscle that predisposes affected individuals to a life-threatening hypermetabolic reaction in response to volatile anaesthetics and depolarizing muscle relaxants. The underlying heterogeneous genetic defects are mainly point mutations within the ryanodine receptor gene of the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Following the introduction of efficient diagnostic and therapeutic tools--the in vitro contracture test and intravenous treatment with dantrolene--a dramatic decline in mortality rates has been observed. The association of malignant hyperthermia-like reactions with other neuromuscular disorders requires the collaboration of several clinical disciplines to achieve a timely recognition of this still life-threatening disorder.
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Wien. Klin. Wochenschr. · Sep 2003
Case Reports Comparative StudyLiver support in fulminant liver failure after hemorrhagic shock.
Acute liver failure (ALF) is a rare clinical syndrome associated with a mortality of up to 80% and its management remains an interdisciplinary challenge. Despite recent improvements in intensive care management, the mortality of patients with ALF remains high and is related to complications such as cerebral edema, sepsis and multiple organ failure. Emergency orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is currently the only effective treatment for those patients who are unlikely to recover spontaneously. ⋯ Although repeated neurological examination predicted diffuse brain damage (brain oedema, decreased cerebral blood flow), the patient recovered without any neurological deficits. The patient survived and was discharged from the hospital in good condition. In this case MARS treatment was successful in supporting the patient through the most critical period of ALF.
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Wien. Klin. Wochenschr. · Sep 2003
Comment Comparative StudyHigh prevalence of chronic venous disease in hospital employees.
Chronic venous disease (CVD), which comprises primary/idiopathic abnormalities of the venous system, and secondary sequels after deep venous thrombosis are major health issues in Western countries. The present study was conducted to prove the hypothesis that the development of CVD might be triggered by exogenous, occupational risk factors. ⋯ The study demonstrated that within a representative cross-section of hospital employees in a University hospital the prevalence of CVD was highest in women, especially in those working in a standing position or under conditions of high temperature and humidity. The results warrant regular evaluation of risk factors with subsequent primary prophylaxis of CVD.