ABSTRACT
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is an x-linked recessive genetic disorder with mutation in the G6PD gene. Defect in the enzyme G6PD causes red blood cells (RBCs) to breakdown prematurely causing hemolytic anemia. Hemolytic anemia is also a known hematological complication associated with viral hepatitis. In such patients, hemolysis may be more severe if there is any secondary injury to RBC in the form of membrane defect, oxidative stress, or enzyme deficiency like in G6PD deficiency. Here, we present a case of an adult, not previously diagnosed with G6PD deficiency, who presented with viral hepatitis, severe hemolysis, and multiorgan failure.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: Chikungunya is generally a mild disease, rarely requiring Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission. However, certain populations may develop organ dysfunction necessitating ICU admission. The purpose of the study was to assess the clinical profile and course of chikungunya patients admitted to the ICU, and to ascertain factors linked with poor outcome. METHODS: All patients with chikungunya admitted to ICU were included in the study. Admission Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score and sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score were calculated. Primary outcome measured was 28-day mortality and secondary outcomes measured were length of hospital and ICU stay and the need for vasopressor support, renal replacement therapy (RRT), and mechanical ventilation (MV). Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors predicting mortality. RESULTS: The most common complaints were fever (96.67%) and altered sensorium (56.67%). Mean admission APACHE II and SOFA scores were 17.28 ± 7.9 and 7.15 ± 4.2, respectively. Fifty-one patients had underlying comorbidities. Vasopressors were required by 46.76%; RRT by 26.67%, and MV by 58.33%, respectively. The 28-day mortality was 36.67%. High APACHE II score (odds ratio: 1.535; 95% confidence interval: 1.053-2.237; P = 0.026) and need for dialysis (odds ratio: 833.221; 95% confidence interval: 1.853-374,664.825; P = 0.031) could independently predict mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with chikungunya fever may require ICU admission for organ failure. They are generally elderly patients with underlying comorbidities. Despite aggressive resuscitation and organ support, these patients are at high risk of death. Admission APACHE II score and need for dialysis may predict patients at higher risk of death.
ABSTRACT
Polymyxin B has resurged in recent years as a last resort therapy for Gram-negative multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extremely drug resistant (XDR) infections. Understanding newer evidence on polymyxin B is necessary to guide clinical decision making. Here, we present a literature review of polymyxin B in Gram-negative infections with update on its pharmacology.
ABSTRACT
We present a case of a 49-year-old female with an alleged history of ingestion of approximately 100 tablets of metformin (850 mg each). Investigations revealed severe lactic acidosis with lactate levels of 13.5 mmol/L and pH of 7.17. This indicates severe toxicity and is associated with a high mortality. Charcoal-based sorbent hemoperfusion was done as a desperate effort, as patient continued to deteriorate despite supportive care and high-volume continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration. The patient survived despite metformin-associated lactic acidosis related to severe metformin toxicity.
ABSTRACT
Acute flaccid quadriparesis secondary to hyperkalemia is a very rare and serious but reversible medical emergency. We present a case of a 73-year-old female who was admitted with rapidly progressive ascending paraparesis progressing to quadriparesis in about 10 h due to hyperkalemia. Patient was treated with antihyperkalemic measures. Her power improved dramatically as potassium levels normalized and she had an uneventful recovery.
