The American journal of emergency medicine
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Comparative Study
Hemodynamic comparison of intravenous push diltiazem versus metoprolol for atrial fibrillation rate control.
Intravenous push (IVP) diltiazem and metoprolol are commonly used for management of atrial fibrillation (AF) with rapid ventricular rate (RVR) in the emergency department (ED). This study's objective was to determine if there was a significant difference in blood pressure reduction between agents. ⋯ IVP diltiazem and metoprolol caused similar SBP reduction and hypotension when used for initial management of AF with RVR in the ED. However, rate control was achieved more often with diltiazem.
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Myxedema Ascites is a rare finding of primary hypothyroidism, thereby leading to delayed diagnosis. However, prompt treatment with levothyroxine leads to complete resolution of the condition. We present a rare case of myxedema ascites in an elderly female and highlight the importance of early diagnosis and management. We also present ischemic colitis in the same patient, which has not been reported thus far in literature as a complication of myxedema ascites.
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Intrinsic plus hand describes a rare and painful contracture of the intrinsic hand muscles with excessive flexion at the metacarpophalangeal joints and extension at the interphalangeal joints. Resulting from many causes to include trauma and neurologic injury, intrinsic plus hand can involve any number of fingers. Emergency department (ED) assessment should include evaluation for cerebrovascular injury, infection, compartment syndrome, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). ⋯ We highlight the case of a 61-year-old otherwise healthy male who awoke to a painful and mildly swollen left hand with his fingers held in a contracted position. Evaluation in the ED found no active range of motion in the digits, severe pain with any passive motion, and a negative upper extremity ultrasound for DVT. Ultimately, orthopedic and neurology consults in the ED agreed upon a diagnosis of intrinsic plus hand.