Clinical medicine (London, England)
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Ulcerative colitis (UC) presents as an acute severe flare in 10-15% of new cases and it occurs in 15% of patients with established disease. Acute severe UC can lead to significant morbidity and mortality in predominantly younger patients without other comorbidities. ⋯ Important but simple aspects in the initial work-up and treatment of such patients are frequently overlooked during the acute medical take. An overview of the general and more specialist management of this important presentation are discussed herein.
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Acute liver failure (ALF) is a rare critical illness with high mortality whose successful management requires early recognition and effective initial management. Though it may result from a wide variety of causes, in the UK and much of the developed world most cases result from paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity, and administration of antidotal N-acetyl cysteine at first recognition is key. Involvement of local critical care services should occur at an early stage for stabilisation, monitoring and supportive care with parallel discussion with specialist liver centres to identify those patients who may benefit from transfer. ⋯ Outcomes now approach that of elective surgery. However, the majority of cases, and particularly those with paracetamol-induced disease, recover with supportive medical care alone. Overall outcomes for patients with ALF have improved dramatically over the last three decades, but mortality remains unacceptable and further advances in care are required.
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Alcohol-related hospital attendances and admissions continue to escalate despite a fall in alcohol consumption levels in the UK population overall. People with alcohol-related problems pose a significant and often disproportionate burden on acute medical services as their management is often complex and challenging. This article focuses on the management of alcohol intoxication, with particular emphasis on aggressive and possibly violent behaviour; alcohol withdrawal; fitting; and the prevention and treatment of Wernicke's encephalopathy.