Reference equations for pulmonary diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide and nitric oxide in adult Caucasians.

The aim of this study was to determine reference equations for the combined measurement of diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (CO) and nitric oxide (NO) (DLCONO). In addition, we wanted to appeal for consensus regarding methodology of the measurement including calculation of diffusing capacity of the alveolo-capillary membrane (Dm) and pulmonary capillary volume (Vc).DLCONO was measured in 282 healthy individuals aged 18-97 years using the single-breath technique and a breath-hold time of 5 s (true apnoea period). The following values were used: 1) specific conductance of nitric oxide (θNO)=4.5 mLNO·mLblood-1·min-1·mmHg-1; 2) ratio of diffusing capacity of the membrane for NO and CO (DmNO/DmCO)=1.97; and 3) 1/red cell CO conductance (1/θCO)=(1.30+0.0041·mean capillary oxygen pressure)·(14.6/Hb concentration in g·dL-1).Reference equations were established for the outcomes of DLCONO, including DLCO and DLNO and the calculated values Dm and Vc Independent variables were age, sex, height and age squared.By providing new reference equations and by appealing for consensus regarding the methodology, we hope to provide a basis for future studies and clinical use of this novel and interesting method.

[Fatal outcome after overdosage with antidepressants]. / Fatalt forløb efter overdosering med serotonin- og noradrenalingenoptagelseshæmmere.

Serotonin syndrome (SS) is a complication after overdosage with antidepressants. SS increases the level of circulating serotonin. Fatal outcome of SS is most often seen in cases where there has been an overdosage with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI)/selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRI) in combination with other serotonin increasing drugs. This case report describes the rapid development of symptoms in a 54-year-old man who ingested a total amount of 6.5 g of SSRI and SNRI drugs as the only drug types. It proves the importance of being aware of the symptoms of SS when the patient is first seen in the emergency department.