J Emerg Med
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Arisaema amurense is widely known in Korean folklore as a poisonous plant, and its lethal toxicity has long been recognized. The toxicity of Arisaema amurense is due to its content of calcium oxalate, which causes painful oropharyngeal edema, hypersalivation, aphonia, oral ulceration, esophageal erosion, and hypocalcemia. ⋯ We describe an emergent treatment course for a patient with acute airway obstruction resulting from the ingestion of Arisaema amurense.
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Observational Study
The effect of tropical cyclones (typhoons) on emergency department visits.
Case reports have indicated that a tropical cyclone may increase Emergency Department (ED) visits significantly. ⋯ During tropical cyclones, emergency services were under increased demand in selected time periods and areas. Health care authorities should collect information to build local models to optimize their resources allocation in preparation.
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Ovarian torsion (OT) is one of the most common gynecologic surgical emergencies. All age groups can be affected, but ovarian stimulation, as found during early pregnancy or infertility treatment, is a major risk factor. ⋯ Ovarian torsion in pregnancy is increasing in frequency due to the growing prevalence of ovarian stimulation treatment. Although diagnostic ultrasound is a frequently used imaging tool in patients with suspected OT, the mere presence of blood flow on Doppler ultrasonography of the adnexa has a poor negative predictive value. A high clinical suspicion and early laparoscopic management correlate with favorable maternal and fetal outcomes.
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Bedbug infestations are increasing across North America and Europe, with more people presenting to Emergency Departments for treatment. Physicians cannot provide substantive treatment for people affected by bedbugs. ⋯ It may be possible that ivermectin could help eradicate, suppress, or prevent a bedbug infestation.
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Despite the publication of recent guidelines for anaphylaxis management, many studies show that physicians are still not at ease with the management of anaphylaxis. ⋯ Medication errors in the management of anaphylaxis were frequent. Use of an SOF significantly reduced the rate of dosage errors.