The American journal of emergency medicine
-
Energy drinks have become a popular beverage especially among young individuals. The growing literature sheds light on acute health problems associated with these products, although they have not yet been in existence long enough to build a solid, evidence-based appreciation of potential long-term effects. ⋯ We report a patient who had a TIA after intake of an energy drink without alcohol. To the best of our knowledge, the following case is the first report of TIA after intake of an energy drink.
-
Case Reports Historical Article
Could contrast-enhanced computed tomography detect ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction prior to electrocardiogram? A case report.
We present here a case in which contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) was the first diagnostic tool to detect myocardial hypoperfusion in a patient with atypical symptoms and normal electrocardiogram (ECG) on admission. An ST-segment elevation was detected thereafter on a second ECG realized several minutes after CT with raised troponin levels. Percutaneous coronary intervention was performed after failure of thrombolysis and confirmed occlusion of the left anterior descending artery. Further studies are needed to evaluate the role of high-resolution contrast-enhanced CT with or without coronary angiography in the workup of suspected myocardial infarction in the setting of a normal ECG.
-
We studied the complications and timing implications of prehospital activated charcoal (PAC). Appropriateness of PAC administration was also evaluated. ⋯ Prehospital activated charcoal did not appear to markedly delay transport or arrival of overdose patients into the ED and was generally safe.
-
Purple glove syndrome is a rare and poorly understood complication of phenytoin use, occurring almost always with its intravenous formulation. This syndrome comprises of pain, purple discoloration, and edema distal to the site of intravenous administration of phenytoin. We hereby report an unusual case, wherein purple glove syndrome was seen on oral formulation of phenytoin in its therapeutic dose.
-
Case Reports
Successful management of heat stroke associated with multiple-organ dysfunction by active intravascular cooling.
Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate initiation of rapid and effective cooling. We report successful cooling with initial intravascular cooling use that rapidly achieved the target temperature with continued normothermia thereafter. A 39-year-old previously healthy man collapsed on a hot, humid day and presented with a disturbance of consciousness. ⋯ Extubation was performed on day 3, and he was discharged on day 5 without further complication or sequelae. It is essential in the treatment of heat stroke to cool as quickly as possible and to provide cardiovascular support. In patients with severe heat stroke and multiple-organ dysfunction, initial use of the active intravascular cooling technique is warranted for aggressive cooling.