ABSTRACT
A thorough working knowledge of the diagnosis and treatment of life-threatening electrolyte abnormalities in cancer patients, especially hyponatremia, hypoglycemia, and hypercalcemia, is essential to the successful practice of emergency medicine. Although most minor abnormalities have no specific treatment, severe clinical manifestations of several notable electrolytes occur with significant frequency in the setting of malignancy. The treatment of life-threatening electrolyte abnormalities is reviewed here. Promising future treatments directed at the underlying physiology are also introduced.
ABSTRACT
A thorough working knowledge of the diagnosis and treatment of life-threatening electrolyte abnormalities in cancer patients, especially hyponatremia, hypoglycemia, and hypercalcemia, is essential to the successful practice of emergency medicine. Although most minor abnormalities have no specific treatment, severe clinical manifestations of several notable electrolytes occur with significant frequency in the setting of malignancy. The treatment of life-threatening electrolyte abnormalities is reviewed here. Promising future treatments directed at the underlying physiology are also introduced.
Subject(s)
Neoplasms/complications , Water-Electrolyte Imbalance/etiology , Water-Electrolyte Imbalance/therapy , Emergency Service, Hospital , Humans , Water-Electrolyte Imbalance/diagnosis , Water-Electrolyte Imbalance/physiopathologyABSTRACT
There are many techniques available for the closure of traumatic wounds in emergency departments. Each method has its own unique benefits and limitations that must be considered in each case individually. The best technique provides durability, simplicity, excellent cosmetic outcome, and overall patient satisfaction. Unfortunately, at this time no single method is superior for all situations. Emergency physicians must be familiar with multiple techniques to provide the best outcomes for their patients.
