Noninvasive Ventilation for Preoxygenation during Emergency Intubation.

BACKGROUND: Among critically ill adults undergoing tracheal intubation, hypoxemia increases the risk of cardiac arrest and death. The effect of preoxygenation with noninvasive ventilation, as compared with preoxygenation with an oxygen mask, on the incidence of hypoxemia during tracheal intubation is uncertain. METHODS: In a multicenter, randomized trial conducted at 24 emergency departments and intensive care units in the United States, we randomly assigned critically ill adults (age, ≥18 years) undergoing tracheal intubation to receive preoxygenation with either noninvasive ventilation or an oxygen mask. The primary outcome was hypoxemia during intubation, defined by an oxygen saturation of less than 85% during the interval between induction of anesthesia and 2 minutes after tracheal intubation. RESULTS: Among the 1301 patients enrolled, hypoxemia occurred in 57 of 624 patients (9.1%) in the noninvasive-ventilation group and in 118 of 637 patients (18.5%) in the oxygen-mask group (difference, -9.4 percentage points; 95% confidence interval [CI], -13.2 to -5.6; P<0.001). Cardiac arrest occurred in 1 patient (0.2%) in the noninvasive-ventilation group and in 7 patients (1.1%) in the oxygen-mask group (difference, -0.9 percentage points; 95% CI, -1.8 to -0.1). Aspiration occurred in 6 patients (0.9%) in the noninvasive-ventilation group and in 9 patients (1.4%) in the oxygen-mask group (difference, -0.4 percentage points; 95% CI, -1.6 to 0.7). CONCLUSIONS: Among critically ill adults undergoing tracheal intubation, preoxygenation with noninvasive ventilation resulted in a lower incidence of hypoxemia during intubation than preoxygenation with an oxygen mask. (Funded by the U.S. Department of Defense; PREOXI ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT05267652.).

Video versus Direct Laryngoscopy for Tracheal Intubation of Critically Ill Adults.

BACKGROUND: Whether video laryngoscopy as compared with direct laryngoscopy increases the likelihood of successful tracheal intubation on the first attempt among critically ill adults is uncertain. METHODS: In a multicenter, randomized trial conducted at 17 emergency departments and intensive care units (ICUs), we randomly assigned critically ill adults undergoing tracheal intubation to the video-laryngoscope group or the direct-laryngoscope group. The primary outcome was successful intubation on the first attempt. The secondary outcome was the occurrence of severe complications during intubation; severe complications were defined as severe hypoxemia, severe hypotension, new or increased vasopressor use, cardiac arrest, or death. RESULTS: The trial was stopped for efficacy at the time of the single preplanned interim analysis. Among 1417 patients who were included in the final analysis (91.5% of whom underwent intubation that was performed by an emergency medicine resident or a critical care fellow), successful intubation on the first attempt occurred in 600 of the 705 patients (85.1%) in the video-laryngoscope group and in 504 of the 712 patients (70.8%) in the direct-laryngoscope group (absolute risk difference, 14.3 percentage points; 95% confidence interval [CI], 9.9 to 18.7; P<0.001). A total of 151 patients (21.4%) in the video-laryngoscope group and 149 patients (20.9%) in the direct-laryngoscope group had a severe complication during intubation (absolute risk difference, 0.5 percentage points; 95% CI, -3.9 to 4.9). Safety outcomes, including esophageal intubation, injury to the teeth, and aspiration, were similar in the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Among critically ill adults undergoing tracheal intubation in an emergency department or ICU, the use of a video laryngoscope resulted in a higher incidence of successful intubation on the first attempt than the use of a direct laryngoscope. (Funded by the U.S. Department of Defense; DEVICE ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT05239195.).

A prospective, pragmatic non-inferiority study of emergency intubation success with the single-use i-view versus standard reusable video laryngoscope.

INTRODUCTION: Video laryngoscope (VL) technology improves first-pass success. The novel i-view VL device is inexpensive and disposable. We sought to determine the first-pass intubation success with the i-view VL device versus the standard reusable VL systems in routine use at each site. METHODS: We performed a prospective, pragmatic study at two major emergency departments (EDs) when VL was used. We rotated i-view versus reusable VL as the preferred device of the month based on an a priori schedule. An investigator-initiated interim analysis was performed. Our primary outcome was a first-pass success with a non-inferiority margin of 10% based on the per-protocol analysis. RESULTS: There were 93 intubations using the reusable VL devices and 81 intubations using the i-view. Our study was stopped early due to futility in reaching our predetermined non-inferiority margin. Operator and patient characteristics were similar between the two groups. The first-pass success rate for the i-view group was 69.1% compared to 84.3% for the reusable VL group. A non-inferiority analysis indicated that the difference (-15.1%) and corresponding 90% confidence limits (-25.3% to -5.0%) did not fall within the predetermined 10% non-inferiority margin. CONCLUSIONS: The i-view device failed to meet our predetermined non-inferiority margin when compared to the reusable VL systems with the study stopping early due to futility. Significant crossover occurred at the discretion of the intubating operator during the i-view month.

Emergency medicine updates: Upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

INTRODUCTION: Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a condition commonly seen in the emergency department (ED). Therefore, it is important for emergency clinicians to be aware of the current evidence regarding the diagnosis and management of this disease. OBJECTIVE: This paper evaluates key evidence-based updates concerning UGIB for the emergency clinician. DISCUSSION: UGIB most frequently presents with hematemesis. There are numerous causes, with the most common peptic ulcer disease, though variceal bleeding in particular can be severe. Nasogastric tube lavage for diagnosis is not recommended based on the current evidence. A hemoglobin transfusion threshold of 7 g/dL is recommended (8 g/dL in those with myocardial ischemia), but patients with severe bleeding and hemodynamic instability require emergent transfusion regardless of their level. Medications that may be used in UGIB include proton pump inhibitors, prokinetic agents, and vasoactive medications. Antibiotics are recommended for those with cirrhosis and suspected variceal bleeding. Endoscopy is the diagnostic and therapeutic modality of choice and should be performed within 24 h of presentation in non-variceal bleeding after resuscitation, though patients with variceal bleeding may require endoscopy within 12 h. Transcatheter arterial embolization or surgical intervention may be necessary. Intubation should be avoided if possible. If intubation is necessary, several considerations are required, including resuscitation prior to induction, utilizing preoxygenation and appropriate suction, and administering a prokinetic agent. There are a variety of tools available for risk stratification, including the Glasgow Blatchford Score. CONCLUSIONS: An understanding of literature updates can improve the ED care of patients with UGIB.

Emergency medicine updates: Lower gastrointestinal bleeding.

INTRODUCTION: Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is a condition commonly seen in the emergency department. Therefore, it is important for emergency medicine clinicians to be aware of the current evidence regarding the diagnosis and management of this disease. OBJECTIVE: This paper evaluates key evidence-based updates concerning LGIB for the emergency clinician. DISCUSSION: LGIB is most commonly due to diverticulosis or anorectal disease, though there are a variety of etiologies. The majority of cases resolve spontaneously, but patients can have severe bleeding resulting in hemodynamic instability. Initial evaluation should focus on patient hemodynamics, the severity of bleeding, and differentiating upper gastrointestinal bleeding from LGIB. Factors associated with LGIB include prior history of LGIB, age over 50 years, and presence of blood clots per rectum. Computed tomography angiography is the imaging modality of choice in those with severe bleeding to diagnose the source of bleeding and guide management when embolization is indicated. Among stable patients without severe bleeding, colonoscopy is the recommended modality for diagnosis and management. A transfusion threshold of 7 g/dL hemoglobin is recommended based on recent data and guidelines (8 g/dL in those with myocardial ischemia), though patients with severe bleeding and hemodynamic instability should undergo emergent transfusion. Anticoagulation reversal may be necessary. If bleeding does not resolve, embolization or endoscopic therapies are necessary. There are several risk scores that can predict the risk of adverse outcomes; however, these scores should not replace clinical judgment in determining patient disposition. CONCLUSIONS: An understanding of literature updates can improve the care of patients with LGIB.

Emergency medicine updates: Acute diverticulitis.

INTRODUCTION: Acute diverticulitis is a condition commonly seen in the emergency department (ED). Therefore, it is important for emergency medicine clinicians to be aware of the current evidence regarding the diagnosis and management of this disease. OBJECTIVE: This paper evaluates key evidence-based updates concerning acute diverticulitis for the emergency clinician. DISCUSSION: Diverticulitis is a complication of diverticulosis and most commonly affects the sigmoid and descending colon in Western countries. History and examination can suggest the diagnosis, with abdominal pain and tenderness in the left lower quadrant being the most common symptom and sign, respectively. Change in bowel habits and fever may also occur. Laboratory testing may demonstrate leukocytosis or an elevated C-reactive protein. Imaging options can include computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis with intravenous contrast, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasound (US), though most classification systems for diverticulitis incorporate CT findings. While the majority of diverticulitis cases are uncomplicated, complications may affect up to 25% of patients. Treatment of complicated diverticulitis requires antibiotics and surgical consultation. Antibiotics are not required in select patients with uncomplicated diverticulitis. Appropriate patients for supportive care without antibiotics should be well-appearing, have pain adequately controlled, be able to tolerate oral intake, be able to follow up, have no complications, and have no immunocompromise or severe comorbidities. CONCLUSIONS: An understanding of literature updates can improve the ED care of patients with acute diverticulitis.

High risk and low incidence diseases: Pediatric digestive volvulus.

INTRODUCTION: Pediatric digestive volvulus is a serious condition that carries with it a high rate of morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE: This review highlights the pearls and pitfalls of pediatric digestive volvulus, including the presentation, diagnosis, and management in the emergency department (ED) based on current evidence. DISCUSSION: Pediatric digestive volvulus is a deadly condition most commonly associated with malrotation. It occurs when the stomach or small intestine twists on itself, resulting in ischemia and potentially strangulation with necrosis and perforation. Presentation differs based on the gastrointestinal (GI) segment affected, degree of twisting, and acuity of the volvulus. Gastric volvulus most commonly presents with retching with or without nonbilious emesis and epigastric distension with pain, while midgut volvulus typically presents with bilious emesis in infants. Patients with GI necrosis and perforation may present with hemodynamic compromise and peritonitis. If suspected, emergent consultation with the pediatric surgery specialist is necessary, and if this is not available, transfer to a center with a pediatric surgeon is recommended. Imaging includes plain radiography, ultrasound, or upper GI series, while treatment includes resuscitation, administration of antibiotics, and emergent surgical decompression and detorsion of the involved segments. CONCLUSION: An understanding of pediatric digestive volvulus and its many potential mimics can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and managing this deadly disease.

Trauma in pregnancy: A narrative review of the current literature.

INTRODUCTION: Trauma accounts for nearly half of all deaths of pregnant women. Pregnant women have distinct physiologic and anatomic characteristics which complicate their management following major trauma. OBJECTIVE: This paper comprises a narrative review of the most recent literature informing the management of pregnant trauma patients. DISCUSSION: The incidence of trauma during pregnancy is 6-8%. The focus of clinical assessment must be on the mother, starting with the primary survey. During airway management, clinicians should consider early intubation if necessary and utilize gastric tubes to minimize the risk of aspiration. Pregnant women experience progesterone-mediated hyperventilation, and normal PaCO2 levels may portend imminent respiratory failure. Clinicians should utilize left lateral tilt in hypotensive pregnant women to displace the uterus off the inferior vena cava. Ultrasonography is an attractive imaging modality for pregnant women which is specific for ruling in intraabdominal hemorrhage but not sufficiently sensitive to exclude this diagnosis. Clinicians should not hesitate to order computed tomography imaging in unstable patients if there is diagnostic ambiguity. Cardiotocographic monitoring simultaneously assesses uterine contractions and fetal heart rate and should last at least 4 h for pregnant women following even minor abdominal trauma if their fetus has achieved viable gestational age (approximately 24 weeks). In the event of cardiac arrest, peri-mortem cesarean section may improve outcomes for the mother and fetus alike. Unique specific complications include uterine rupture and placental abruption, which require emergent resuscitation and obstetrics consultation for definitive management. Emergency clinicians should maintain a low threshold for transfer to a tertiary care center given correlations between even isolated and relatively minor traumatic injuries with adverse fetal and maternal outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Trauma is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in pregnant women. Emergency clinicians must understand the evaluation and management of pregnant trauma patients.

Acute aortic occlusion: A narrative review for emergency clinicians.

INTRODUCTION: Acute aortic occlusion (AAO) is a rare but serious condition associated with significant morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE: This review provides an emergency medicine focused evaluation of AAO, including presentation, assessment, and emergency department (ED) management based on current evidence. DISCUSSION: AAO refers to obstruction of blood flow through the aorta due to either thrombosis or embolism. This condition primarily affects older adults ages 60-70 with cardiovascular comorbidities and most commonly presents with signs and symptoms of acute limb ischemia, though the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and spinal cord may be affected. The first line imaging modality includes computed tomography angiography of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis. ED resuscitative management consists of avoiding extremes of blood pressure or heart rate, maintaining normal oxygen saturation and euvolemic status, anticoagulation with heparin, and pain control. Emergent consultation with the vascular surgery specialist is recommended to establish a plan for restoration of perfusion to ischemic tissues via endovascular or open techniques. High rates of baseline comorbidities present in the affected population as well as ischemic and reperfusion injuries place AAO patients at high risk for complications in an immediate and delayed fashion after surgical management. CONCLUSIONS: An understanding of AAO can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and managing this rare but devastating disease.

High risk and low prevalence diseases: Spontaneous cervical artery dissection.

INTRODUCTION: Spontaneous cervical artery dissection (sCAD) is a serious condition that carries with it a high rate of morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE: This review highlights the pearls and pitfalls of sCAD, including presentation, diagnosis, and management in the emergency department (ED) based on current evidence. DISCUSSION: sCAD is a condition affecting the carotid or vertebral arteries and occurs as a result of injury and compromise to the arterial wall layers. The dissection most commonly affects the extracranial vessels but may extend intracranially, resulting in subarachnoid hemorrhage. Patients typically present with symptoms due to compression of local structures, and the presentation depends on the vessel affected. The most common symptom is headache and/or neck pain. Signs and symptoms of ischemia may occur, including transient ischemic attack and stroke. There are a variety of risk factors for sCAD, including underlying connective tissue or vascular disorders, and there may be an inciting event involving minimal trauma to the head or neck. Diagnosis includes imaging, most commonly computed tomography angiography of the head and neck. Ultrasound can diagnose sCAD but should not be used to exclude the condition. Treatment includes specialist consultation (neurology and vascular specialist), consideration of thrombolysis in appropriate patients, symptomatic management, and administration of antithrombotic medications. CONCLUSIONS: An understanding of sCAD can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and managing this potentially deadly disease.

High risk and low prevalence diseases: Stevens Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis.

INTRODUCTION: Stevens Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are serious conditions that carry a high rate of morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE: This review highlights the pearls and pitfalls of SJS/TEN, including presentation, diagnosis, and management in the emergency department (ED) based on current evidence. DISCUSSION: SJS/TEN is a rare, delayed hypersensitivity reaction resulting in de-epithelialization of the skin and mucous membranes. The majority of cases are associated with medication or infection. Clinicians should consider SJS/TEN in any patient presenting with a blistering mucocutaneous eruption. Evaluation of the skin, mucosal, pulmonary, renal, genital, and ocular systems are essential in the diagnosis of SJS/TEN, as well as in the identification of complications (e.g., sepsis). Laboratory and radiological testing cannot confirm the diagnosis in the ED setting, but they may assist in the identification of complications. ED management includes stabilization of airway and breathing, fluid resuscitation, and treatment of any superimposed infections with broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy. All patients with suspected SJS/TEN should be transferred and admitted to a center with burn surgery, critical care, dermatology, and broad specialist availability. CONCLUSIONS: An understanding of SJS/TEN can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and managing this potentially deadly disease.

High risk and low prevalence diseases: Botulism.

INTRODUCTION: Botulism is a serious condition that carries with it a high rate of morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE: This review highlights the pearls and pitfalls of botulism, including presentation, diagnosis, and management in the emergency department (ED) based on current evidence. DISCUSSION: Botulism is a neuromuscular disorder caused by toxin production of clostridium species bacteria and is a challenging diagnosis that mimics several other conditions. Children account for the majority of patients, with a foodborne source most common, followed by wound sources, typically from intravenous drug injection. Classically, patients with botulism develop bilateral cranial nerve palsies and symmetric, bilateral, descending paralysis. However, patients may initially present with vague symptomatology, such as weakness and dry mouth, which can make diagnosis challenging. A careful history elucidating exposures such as intravenous drug use or consumption of non-commercial canned products can help differentiate botulism from other disorders causing neuromuscular weakness. If suspected, the Centers for Disease Control should be notified to mobilize antitoxin for treatment as soon as the diagnosis is suspected even prior to confirmatory testing. Antibiotics should be avoided in these patients, as they can potentiate toxin release, unless there is a concomitant infection requiring antibiotic therapy. Patients with botulism can develop respiratory compromise requiring emergent airway management. Prolonged neuromuscular blockade from botulism will lead to a variety of symptoms that require comprehensive intensive care unit level care. CONCLUSION: An understanding of botulism and its many potential mimics can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and managing this deadly disease.

GLP-1 agonists: A review for emergency clinicians.

INTRODUCTION: Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) based therapies, including GLP-1 agonists, are currently in use for treatment of diabetes and obesity. However, several complications may occur with their use. OBJECTIVE: This narrative review provides a focused evaluation of GLP-1 agonist therapy and associated complications for emergency clinicians. DISCUSSION: GLP-1 agonists potentiate insulin release and reduce gastric emptying and food intake. These agents have demonstrated significant improvements in glucose control in diabetics and weight loss in obese patients. The two most common agents include subcutaneous semaglutide (Ozempic, approved for type 2 diabetes, and Wegovy, approved for weight loss) and liraglutide (Saxenda, approved for weight loss, and Victoza, approved for type 2 diabetes), though an oral formulation of semaglutide is available (Rybelsus). While these drugs are associated with improved long-term outcomes, there are a variety of associated adverse events. The most common include gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Pancreatitis and biliary disease may also occur. Hypersensitivity including injection site reactions have been associated with use, with reports of anaphylaxis and other rashes. Renal adverse events are most commonly associated with severe GI losses. Hypoglycemia may occur when these agents are used with sulfonylureas or insulin. There is also an increased risk of diabetic retinopathy. Due to the current shortage and expense of these medications, many patients have attempted to obtain these medications from non-licensed and unregulated agents, which may be associated with increased risk of serious complications. CONCLUSIONS: An understanding of the indications for GLP-1 agonist use and associated adverse events can assist emergency clinicians.

High risk and low prevalence diseases: Flexor tenosynovitis.

INTRODUCTION: Flexor tenosynovitis (FTS) is a deep space infection of an upper extremity digit which carries a high rate of morbidity. OBJECTIVE: This review highlights the pearls and pitfalls of FTS, including presentation, diagnosis, and management in the emergency department (ED) based on current evidence. DISCUSSION: FTS typically occurs after direct penetrating trauma to the volar aspect of an upper extremity digit. Development of a deep space infection that quickly propagates through the flexor tendon sheath of a digit can result in serious structural damage to the hand and place the patient at risk for significant morbidity such as finger amputation or even result in death. Signs of FTS include symmetrical swelling of the affected finger, the affected finger being held in a flexed position, pain on any attempt of passive finger extension, and tenderness along the course of flexor tendon sheath, known as the Kanavel signs. Systemic symptoms such as fevers and chills may occur. Recognition of these signs and symptoms is paramount in diagnosis of FTS, as laboratory and imaging assessment is not typically diagnostic. ED management involves intravenous antibiotics and emergent surgical specialist consultation. CONCLUSION: An understanding of the presentation and risk factors for development of FTS can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and managing this disease in an expedited fashion.

High risk and low prevalence diseases: Guillain-Barré syndrome.

INTRODUCTION: Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare but serious condition that carries with it a high rate of morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE: This review highlights the pearls and pitfalls of GBS, including presentation, diagnosis, and management in the emergency department (ED) based on current evidence. DISCUSSION: GBS is a rare immune-mediated neurologic disorder with peripheral nerve injury. It most commonly presents weeks after a bacterial or viral infection, though there are a variety of associated inciting events. The diagnosis is challenging and often subtle, as only 25-30% of patients are diagnosed on their initial healthcare visit. Clinicians should consider GBS in patients with progressive ascending weakness involving the lower extremities associated with hyporeflexia, but the cranial nerves, respiratory system, and autonomic system may be involved. While the ED diagnosis should be based on clinical assessment, further evaluation includes laboratory testing, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, and potentially neuroimaging. Not all patients demonstrate albumino-cytological dissociation on CSF testing. Several criteria exist to assist with diagnosis, including the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke criteria and the Brighton criteria. Management focuses first on assessment of the patient's hemodynamic and respiratory status, which may require emergent intervention. Significant fluctuations in heart rate and blood pressure may occur, and respiratory muscle weakness may result in the need for airway protection. Neurology consultation is recommended, and definitive treatment includes PLEX or IVIG. CONCLUSIONS: An understanding of GBS can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and managing this potentially deadly disease.

High risk and low prevalence diseases: Infected urolithiasis.

INTRODUCTION: Infected urolithiasis is a serious condition that carries with it a high rate of morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE: This review highlights the pearls and pitfalls of infected urolithiasis, including presentation, diagnosis, and management in the emergency department based on current evidence. DISCUSSION: Although urolithiasis is common and the vast majority can be treated conservatively, the presence of a concomitant urinary tract infection significantly increases the risk of morbidity, to include sepsis and mortality. Identification of infected urolithiasis can be challenging as patients may have symptoms similar to uncomplicated urolithiasis and/or pyelonephritis. However, clinicians should consider infected urolithiasis in toxic-appearing patients with fever, chills, dysuria, and costovertebral angle tenderness, especially in those with a history of recurrent urinary tract infections. Positive urine leukocyte esterase, nitrites, and pyuria in conjunction with an elevated white blood cell count may be helpful to identify infected urolithiasis. Patients should be resuscitated with fluids and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Additionally, computed tomography and early urology consultation are recommended to facilitate definitive care. CONCLUSIONS: An understanding of infected urolithiasis can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and managing this potentially deadly disease.

Dengue: A focused review for the emergency clinician.

Dengue is an arbovirus transmitted by the Aedes spp. mosquito. Approximately 390 million infections occur annually per World Health Organization estimates, with significant increases in infections throughout the last decade. The disease is endemic in warmer climates throughout the world, though cases may also be imported to non-endemic regions by returning travelers. Patients experience a wide variety of symptoms ranging from asymptomatic infection to severe disease requiring critical care. Emergency clinicians should consider the diagnosis of dengue in patients from endemic areas presenting with a flu-like illness, rash, and evidence of bleeding.

High risk and low prevalence diseases: Acute mastoiditis.

INTRODUCTION: Acute mastoiditis is a serious condition that carries with it a high rate of morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE: This review highlights the pearls and pitfalls of mastoiditis, including the presentation, diagnosis, and management in the emergency department (ED) based on current evidence. DISCUSSION: Acute mastoiditis most commonly affects pediatric patients and is a suppurative infection of the mastoid air cells. It is often associated with otitis media, and common bacteria include Streptococcus and Staphylococcus. History and examination may reveal tympanic membrane erythema, pinna protrusion, postauricular erythema, mastoid tenderness with palpation, external canal swelling, otorrhea, fever, and malaise. The disease should be suspected in those who fail treatment for otitis media and those who demonstrate the aforementioned abnormalities on examination and systemic symptoms. Laboratory analysis may reveal evidence of systemic inflammation, but a normal white blood cell count and other inflammatory markers should not be used to exclude the diagnosis. Computed tomography (CT) of the temporal bones with intravenous contrast is the recommended imaging modality if the clinician is unsure of the diagnosis. CT may also demonstrate complications. Treatment includes antibiotics such as ampicillin-sulbactam or ceftriaxone as well as otolaryngology consultation. Complications may include subperiosteal and intracranial abscess, deep neck abscess, facial nerve palsy, meningitis/encephalitis, venous sinus thrombosis, and seizures. CONCLUSIONS: An understanding of acute mastoiditis can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and managing this potentially deadly disease.

High risk and low prevalence diseases: Myocarditis.

INTRODUCTION: Myocarditis is a serious condition that carries with it a high rate of morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE: This review highlights the pearls and pitfalls of myocarditis, including presentation, diagnosis, and management in the emergency department (ED) based on current evidence. DISCUSSION: Myocarditis is an inflammatory syndrome of myocardium, most often resulting from a viral infection, that can cause life-threatening cardiovascular collapse. It has a highly variable presentation and no widely available specific diagnostic test, making it a challenging diagnosis. Emergency clinicians should obtain an electrocardiogram and perform bedside ultrasound to assess cardiac function. Treatment in the ED is largely supportive, focusing on resuscitation, cardiovascular support, cardiology specialist consultation, and appropriate disposition. CONCLUSIONS: An understanding of myocarditis can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and managing this potentially deadly disease.

Management of high-risk pulmonary embolism in the emergency department: A narrative review.

BACKGROUND: High-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) is a complex, life-threatening condition, and emergency clinicians must be ready to resuscitate and rapidly pursue primary reperfusion therapy. The first-line reperfusion therapy for patients with high-risk PE is systemic thrombolytics (ST). Despite consensus guidelines, only a fraction of eligible patients receive ST for high-risk PE. OBJECTIVE: This review provides emergency clinicians with a comprehensive overview of the current evidence regarding the management of high-risk PE with an emphasis on ST and other reperfusion therapies to address the gap between practice and guideline recommendations. DISCUSSION: High-risk PE is defined as PE that causes hemodynamic instability. The high mortality rate and dynamic pathophysiology of high-risk PE make it challenging to manage. Initial stabilization of the decompensating patient includes vasopressor administration and supplemental oxygen or high-flow nasal cannula. Primary reperfusion therapy should be pursued for those with high-risk PE, and consensus guidelines recommend the use of ST for high-risk PE based on studies demonstrating benefit. Other options for reperfusion include surgical embolectomy and catheter directed interventions. CONCLUSIONS: Emergency clinicians must possess an understanding of high-risk PE including the clinical assessment, pathophysiology, management of hemodynamic instability and respiratory failure, and primary reperfusion therapies.