Clinical Communiqué Volume 8 Issue 1 March 2021

Download PDF:  Clinical Communiqué March 2021 Edition

In this edition

• Editorial

• Case #1: A poisonous adventure

• Case #2: The paradox of negative pressure

• More on the Matter: Outing the problem

• Expert Commentary: Carbon monoxide toxicity

Editorial

In our first edition we look at deaths due to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is often referred to as the ‘silent killer’ and as a ‘great imitator’ of many common disease processes.

We have two detailed case summaries and several case vignettes that demonstrate the wide-ranging scenarios where toxic exposure to CO may occur. Dr Matthew Spotswood, an intensivist and emergency physician, has compiled a concise and practical overview of the pathophysiology, clinical features, and treatment of patients with CO toxicity.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is an entirely preventable illness, and if identified early enough, is wholly reversible. Recognising the signs and symptoms of CO poisoning is vital to keeping patients and those around them safe.