A C++ framework for developing Medical Logic Modules and an Arden Syntax compiler.

When developing a clinical decision support system that uses knowledge expressed in Arden Syntax, the availability of a robust means of translating Arden Syntax into an executable module becomes critical. This paper describes an approach where Arden Syntax is translated into an intermediate pseudo-Arden language that is in turn compiled and linked to create the executable module. The pseudo-Arden language is defined in C++ using specialized class libraries and preprocessor macros. This approach provides an alternative means of developing the code generator for an Arden Syntax compiler.

Acute fluoride poisoning leading to fatal hyperkalemia.

Marked peaking of the T waves later recognized as being due to hyperkalemia was noted in a patient with acute fluoride intoxication before developing refractory ventricular fibrillation. Such T wave changes have not been previously described in fluoride intoxication and should alert one to the presence of hyperkalemia complicating this condition, the presence of which may herald the onset of lethal ventricular arrhythmias.