In:
BMC Research Notes, Springer Science and Business Media LLC, Vol. 6, No. 1 ( 2013-12)
Abstract:
Acute adrenal insufficiency is a potentially lethal condition rarely caused by bilateral adrenal haemorrhage due to heparin use. Most of the times, it is difficult to establish the diagnosis, as symptoms are not specific. Few cases have been reported in the literature. Case presentation A 52-year-old Caucasian woman presented with abdominal pain, vomiting and weakness nine days after arthroplasty and heparin use. Hyperkalemia, low cortisol and high adrenocorticotropic hormone levels were found, indicating adrenal insufficiency. Magnetic resonance imaging of the upper abdomen was compatible with preceding adrenal haemorrhage. Hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone were administered. Review of the literature revealed 36 cases of postoperative adrenal haemorrhage which are presented briefly. Conclusion Postoperative acute adrenal insufficiency due to haemorrhage is a rare condition. If patients are treated based on clinical suspicion, they have good chances to survive. Hydrocortisone is given permanently in the majority of the patients.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
1756-0500
DOI:
10.1186/1756-0500-6-370
Language:
English
Publisher:
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Publication Date:
2013
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2413336-X
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