Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research
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The purpose of this paper is to propose methylene blue as a lifesaving alternative drug for the treatment of contrast-induced anaphylaxis. ⋯ Our findings suggest that methylene blue can be lifesaving in anaphylactic shock, notwithstanding some transitory side effects, such as cardiac rhythm disturbances and chest pain, both of which possibly originate from sudden myocardial perfusion deficits.
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The complications of warfarin therapy have classically been described as bleeding in the genitourinary and gastrointestinal tracts, skin, central nervous system, nose, penis, or retroperitoneum. However, rarely warfarin may cause bleeding that compromises a patient's airway. A sublingual haematoma is an example of such a complication. Only 10 previous cases of sublingual haematomas have been reported. ⋯ This case makes several important points. First, the case describes a rare, but life-threatening complication of warfarin therapy. Second, the initial signs of a sublingual haematoma are reviewed. Given the vagueness of these signs, diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion on the part of the physician. Finally, the case describes successfully management of this disorder without the use of a surgical airway. For this patient, reversal of her anticoagulation and vigilant monitoring saved her from having a surgical airway placed.