Enteroliths in association with right hemicolectomy for cecal carcinoma.

In this paper we present an asymptomatic patient with enteroliths as a result of prior hemicolectomy for cecal carcinoma. We briefly review the clinical, pathologic and radiographic findings found in such patients. The significance of this condition is to realize that it is usually a benign entity per se, but that it may also be a clue in determining underlying pathology within the GI tract.

Fulminant hyperkalaemia and multiple complications following ibuprofen overdose.

A previously healthy 17-year-old man was admitted in coma following major overdosage with ibuprofen and minor overdosage of doxepin (plasma concentrations 809 and 0.49 mg/L, respectively). Initially, potassium chloride (20 mmol 3-hourly) was infused because of mild hypokalaemia (K+ 2.8 mmol/L). 14 hours after admission the patient developed a hypermetabolic state with pyrexia, metabolic acidosis and progressive respiratory failure despite ventilation at 16 L/min, and a malignant broad complex tachycardia was associated with acute hyperkalaemia (K+ 8.3 mmol/L). The arrhythmia resolved with correction of the hyperkalaemia. Chest x-rays showed diffuse opacification throughout both lung fields and subsequently there was transient impairment of renal function, with evidence of mild rhabdomyolysis. Ventilatory support was required for 60 hours and a chest x-ray at 6 days showed extensive bilateral nodular shadowing, which was still present at follow-up 4 weeks later.

Teaching of cardiopulmonary resuscitation by medical students.

Ten first-year medical students were taught basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) according to the guidelines laid down by the American Heart Association. Following a 7.5-hour instruction period they, in turn, taught 40 secondary school pupils. On formal assessment using models, all the school children were able to perform basic CPR.