ABSTRACT
We describe a case of severe neuroexcitatory reaction with hyperthermia after administration of propofol in a 43-year-old patient suspected of a relapse of sarcoidosis who underwent bronchoscopy. This resulted in a lengthy stay in intensive care and long-term neuropsychological impairment. A review of the literature shows that severe neuroexcitatory symptoms (seizure-like phenomena, abnormal hypertonic, and/or jerky movements) occur rarely after propofol administration and may be life-threatening. Due to the paucity of data, the treatment is mostly empirical. The diagnosis can also be delayed owing to underrecognition. We conclude that health practitioners who frequently use propofol should be aware of this specific manifestation of drug toxicity, which albeit rare can be devastating for the patient.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The rapid spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has caused more than 3.9 million cases worldwide. Currently, there is great interest to assess venous thrombosis prevalence, diagnosis, prevention, and management in patients with COVID-19. OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in critically ill patients with COVID-19, using lower limbs venous ultrasonography screening. METHODS: Beginning March 8, we enrolled 25 patients who were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections. The presence of lower extremity deep vein thrombosis (DVT) was systematically assessed by ultrasonography between day 5 and 10 after admission. The data reported here are those available up to May 9, 2020. RESULTS: The mean (± standard deviation) age of the patients was 68 ± 11 years, and 64% were men. No patients had a history of VTE. During the ICU stay, 8 patients (32%) had a VTE; 6 (24%) a proximal DVT, and 5 (20%) a pulmonary embolism. The rate of symptomatic VTE was 24%, while 8% of patients had screen-detected DVT. Only those patients with a documented VTE received a therapeutic anticoagulant regimen. As of May 9, 2020, 5 patients had died (20%), 2 remained in the ICU (8%), and 18 were discharged (72%). CONCLUSIONS: In critically ill patients with SARS-CoV-2 infections, DVT screening at days 5-10 of admission yielded a 32% prevalence of VTE. Seventy-five percent of events occurred before screening. Earlier screening might be effective in optimizing care in ICU patients with COVID-19.
ABSTRACT
The refeeding syndrome (RS) is a consequence of passing from a catabolic state to an anabolic state triggered by renutrition that is followed by a prolonged period of fasting. Often under-diagnosed in the context of malnutrition or multimorbid patients, RS presents itself through nonspecific symptoms (oedema and tachycardia) that can rapidly progress in the first 72 hours into life threatening states. The internationally recognized NICE guidelines estimate the risk of RS and are based on BMI, weight loss and electrolyte levels. Several recent studies have addressed hypophosphatemia as a predominant marker allowing to better estimate refeeding syndrome gravity and risk. Patients who present a risk should have a progressive renutrition with an electrolyte substitution if required.
Le syndrome de renutrition inappropriée (SRI) est une complication de la renutrition suite à un jeûne prolongé ou une période de sous-alimentation, avec le métabolisme changeant d'un état catabolique à un état anabolique. Le SRI chez les patients polymorbides peut se présenter de façon aspécifique (Ådèmes, tachycardie) dans les premières 72 heures suivant la reprise de l'alimentation. Chez les patients à risque, il est essentiel d'initier une réalimentation progressive, avec un suivi biologique et une substitution électrolytique appropriés. Les critères de NICE (Institut national pour la santé et l'excellence clinique), utilisés internationalement pour estimer le risque du SRI, se basent essentiellement sur l'IMC, la perte de poids, la durée du jeûne et les valeurs électrolytiques avec de récentes études appuyant sur le rôle pronostique de l'hypophosphatémie.
Subject(s)
Refeeding Syndrome/diagnosis , Refeeding Syndrome/prevention & control , Aged , Body Mass Index , Edema , Electrolytes , Fasting , Humans , Hypophosphatemia , Refeeding Syndrome/etiology , Risk , Tachycardia , Weight LossABSTRACT
Disease related malnutrition has numerous financial and medical consequences and requires to be treated by a nutritional team. Sick patients will frequently need an artificial oral or enteral nutritional support. Prescribing oral nutritional supplements (ONS) with a real indication has to be associated to a bundle of measures to enhance compliance. The efficacy of ONS is supported by various publications. Enteral nutrition (EN) through a nasogastric tube is indicated when oral support has failed or when it is not feasible. The standard formulae are polymeric, have a normal energy density et contain fibres. The macro and micronutrients supply is easily controlled but the the need for free water also has to be managed. EN treatment is paid by the Swiss basic medical coverage insurance while ONS reimbursement is dependant on complementary private insurances.
