ABSTRACT
Massive hemoptysis due to pulmonary tuberculosis is a life-threatening complication; it occurs as a result of the erosion of one of the pulmonary vessels. Tuberculous vascular lesions can also lead to arteritis, thrombosis, arterial dilation and Rasmussen aneurysms. "Rasmussen aneurysm" is a rare cause of hemoptysis. The extent of hemoptysis varies in severity from mild to life threatening, which is more common. Here, we report a case of a 45-year-old Indian male who initially presented with cough, and generalized weakness; his clinical, laboratory, and radiological findings were highly suggestive of pulmonary tuberculosis. Following medical ward admission, two weeks later he had worsening of his respiratory status complicated by massive hemoptysis and dropped oxygen saturation requiring intubation and admission to the intensive care unit. His computed tomography angiography revealed localized aneurysmal dilatation of the pulmonary artery in the left lower lobe (Rasmussen aneurysm); embolization was performed successfully. Due to the poor respiratory reservoir in most pulmonary TB cases, interventional radiology is preferred over surgery.
ABSTRACT
Datura stramonium (also called thorn apple or Jimson weed) is a plant that contains atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine, giving it anticholinergic effects when consumed. We report the case of a 32-year-old male in Qatar who intentionally ingested seeds from Jimson weed mixed with milk. The patient became severely confused and delirious, eventually requiring admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) for two days for management. The patient was discharged safely with no complications afterward. The case is unique in that Jimson weed is not common in Qatar, and due to the adverse effects of this plant, this case serves to highlight to both the general population and healthcare professionals the effects of ingestion and the appropriate management plan for toxicity caused by Jimson weed.
