Journal of toxicology. Clinical toxicology
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J. Toxicol. Clin. Toxicol. · Jan 1985
Case ReportsAcute carbon monoxide poisoning. Risk of late sequelae and treatment by hyperbaric oxygen.
The indications for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) in the treatment of acute carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning are discussed far too little in the literature. Depending on the author reasons for referral to a hyperbaric center include the carboxyhemoglobin level, change in state of consciousness or neurological abnormalities. In our opinion, HBO should be used on much wider indications than is usual, not only because of the rapid relief from symptoms it provides but mainly because it may prevent severe delayed sequelae. ⋯ Two patients were re-hospitalized for neuropsychiatric sequelae and recovered in 3 and 6 months respectively. Neither the clinical status upon admission nor COHb predicted the outcome of the poisoning. Referral to a HBO center should be considered when: --the patient is comatose --there are abnormal clinical findings --patients have been unconsciousness during exposure, irrespective of whether they are conscious on admission and have normal clinical status.
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J. Toxicol. Clin. Toxicol. · Oct 1984
ReviewEnvenomation by the scorpion Centruroides sculpturatus.
Envenomation by the scorpion C. sculpturatus can be life threatening. The action of the venom is to produce prolonged and excessive firing of neuronal axons which results in a wide variety of signs and symptoms. ⋯ The intravenous administration of specific C. sculpturatus antivenom results in resolution of serious signs and symptoms within minutes, with patients completely asymptomatic within 1 1/2 hours. The administration of antivenom is recommended as the treatment of choice for severe envenomations after the initiation of appropriate supportive care.
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Black widow spiders (Latrodectus species) are found worldwide. Envenomation of humans usually occurs as the result of chance intrusion into the spider's domain by the human. The venom is regarded as one of the most potent biologic toxins. ⋯ The very young, the elderly or enfeebled, and those with cardiovascular disease are at greatest risk. While not always necessary, the most effective treatment is specific antiserum. Muscle relaxants, analgesics and intravenous calcium are useful adjuvant treatment.
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As man takes increasing advantage of the waters of the world for recreational, commercial and scientific purposes, the hazards of human contact with inhabitants must be appreciated. Many invertebrate and vertebrate animal species have developed natural defense mechanisms, some of which involve envenomation, with a few species posing the threat of serious injury or death. This paper discusses the more common and more serious marine envenomations encountered worldwide, including toxicology of the associated venoms and a discussion of current treatment recommendations.
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J. Toxicol. Clin. Toxicol. · Jul 1984
Stroma-free methemoglobin solution as an antidote for cyanide poisoning: a preliminary study.
Effective treatment of cyanide poisoning requires rapid diagnosis, good supportive treatment and the use of a specific antidote. The currently available antidotes offer demonstrated efficacy along with significant potential adverse side effects. We have investigated an alternate approach to antidote therapy for cyanide poisoning by using Stroma-Free Methemoglobin Solution ( SFMS ). ⋯ There was a highly significant increase in the survival rate of the treated group compared to saline controls. The potential advantages of SFMS over current antidotes include an immediate onset of action, rapid elimination of cyanide from the body and a mode of action that doesn't compromise any of the patients' oxygen carrying capacity. SFMS shows promise as a significant adjunct in the treatment of cyanide poisoning.