RESUMEN
Metformin-associated lactic acidosis (MALA) is a life-threatening condition that may occur as a side effect of biguanides. This condition has a mortality rate of approximately 55 % depending on the severity. Typical symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, but may also manifest with severe symptoms such as blindness, distributive shock, and renal failure requiring ICU level care. We present the case of a female in her early 70s who arrived at the emergency department with altered mental status and new-onset blindness, later diagnosed with severe acidosis (pH 6.607). She was intubated for hemodynamic instability and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) was started to address her acid-base status. Her metformin concentration was found to be exceptionally high at 34 mcg/ml, significantly surpassing the normal range of 1-2 mcg/ml. Fortunately, the patient survived and was subsequently transferred to the medical floors in stable condition. Physicians should perform medication review and consider "MALA" as a potential etiology of severe acidosis when forming a differential diagnosis.
RESUMEN
Herbal teas have been ingrained in traditional practices, particularly in traditional Chinese medicine, for many years. Despite their global popularity and widespread use, there is a notable absence of comprehensive studies elucidating the mechanism of action and potential adverse effects associated with these medicinal herbs. We present the case of a male in his early 50s who consumed an herbal tea called "Tapee tea" which is marketed to alleviate musculoskeletal pain and is available for purchase on various online platforms. He presented to the hospital due to melanotic stools and was subsequently diagnosed with a large duodenal peptic ulcer which was further complicated by hemorrhagic shock and cardiopulmonary arrest. Our aim is to create awareness for the public to exercise caution before purchasing products regarded as "natural" supplements. Healthcare professionals, including physicians and mid-level providers, should adopt a comprehensive approach to patient assessment, including history-taking that includes medication reconciliation of over-the-counter dietary supplements when constructing a differential diagnosis. This approach ensures a well-informed and vigilant stance towards the potential risks associated with herbal product consumption.
RESUMEN
Olmesartan is a relatively new angiotensin receptor blocker used widely to control hypertension. Cases have been reported previously of enteropathy induced by olmesartan. Here, the authors report a case of olmesartan-induced ischemic enteritis complicated by bowel perforation. A 52-year-old male patient, during the treatment with olmesartan, developed severe abdominal pain of five-day duration. He underwent exploratory laparotomy for bowel perforation and surgical resection of the ischemic bowel segment. On a two-month follow-up after the discontinuation of olmesartan and the emergency surgery, the patient was symptom-free and functioning well. This rare report focuses on ischemic enteritis associated with olmesartan, describes the symptoms, and records the progression of this side effect and the corresponding treatment. Our case aims to raise awareness amongst physicians about the possibility of this severe complication and to point out that more research is still needed on its pathophysiology to better understand this drug.
RESUMEN
Pancreatic SRCC is a rare, aggressive tumor. Given limited evidence and the risk of side effects, physicians may elect to withhold chemotherapy in select patients, with the exception of neoadjuvant chemotherapy use to facilitate resectability.