Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by a dysregulated immune response to pathogens or their toxins in blood or tissue. The organisms can be bacteria, viruses or fungi, while toxins may include endotoxin (LPS) or exotoxins. Sepsis may range from mild…
Female genital mutilation refers to all procedures involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs, for non-medical reasons. It is recognised internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women.…
Anticoagulation therapy prevents and treats thromboembolism by inhibiting the coagulation cascade. Anticoagulants Class Mechanism Examples Nota bene Unfractionated heparin (UFH) Enhances the activity of antithrombin III → decreased thrombin and Xa activity Heparin Monitored with aPTT and Anti-Xa levels. It is…
Overview Amiodarone is a very effective, but highly toxic, class III antiarrhythmic. Amiodarone-induced Hypothyroidism (AIH) The pathophysiology of hypothyroidism is due to the Wolff-Chaikoff effect – thyroxine formation is inhibited due to high levels of circulating iodine. Amiodarone-induced Thyrotoxicosis (AIT) AIT…
Digoxin Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside that is derived from the foxglove plant. Digoxin (Digitalis) Toxicity Syndrome The likelihood of digoxin toxicity increases at a concentration of 1.5 – 3 mcg In the past, loop diuretics would cause hypokalemia, which…
Hydralazine is a direct-actine peripheral vasodilator that mainly causes arteriolar vasodilation.
Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNIs) contain a neprilysin inhibitor and angiotensin II receptor block. Category Examples Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNIs) Sacubitril/valsartan
Potassium-sparing diuretics increase fluid loss through urine while reducing the secretion of potassium. They are generally weak diuretics. Category Examples ENaC Blockers Amiloride and triamterene Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) Spironolactone, eplerenone, and finerenone