Aspirin Overdose Flashcards
what is aspirin overdose a form of
salicylate poisoning
def
ingestion (acute or chronic) of chemicals which are metabolised to salicylate
what are characteristic features of salicylate poisoning on bloods and ABG
electrolyte abnormalities
acid-base disturbances
what is the most common source of salicylate
aspirin
where is aspirin metabolised
GI tract and blood
how much aspirin could cause acute toxicity
> 150mg/kg or >6.5g, whichever is less
how much aspirin could cause chronic toxicity
repeated high dose aspirin equivalent to 150mg/kg/day
what syndrome is associated with aspirin use
Reyes syndrome
what is reyes syndrome
disorder causing liver and brain damage
how can salicylate poisoning occur
accidental ingestion
attempted suicide
who is at risk of toxic salicylate exposure
children and elderly due to improper dosing
what is the most common form of salicylate poisoning
aspirin
what are common aspirin containing products
anadin
beechams powders
what characterises salicylate poisoning
mixed acid base disturbance
electrolyte abnormalities
CNS overdose
what is the first sign of salicylate poisoning
hyperpnoea due to salicylate induced stimulation of the respiratory centre
what is seen on ABG in early SP
respiratory alkalosis (hyperpnoea)
what is seen on ABG in late SP
metabolic acidosis
how do salicylates impair energy production
interfere with Krebs cycle causing decreased ATP
uncouples oxidative phosphorylation which results in lactate accumulation and release of energy as heat
leads to increased body temp and sweating
risk factors
ingestion of aspirin
children or elderly
what are features of SP
presence of RFs
abnormal behaviour or delirium
GI symptoms such as N+V + epigastric pain
systemic symptoms such as fever and sweating
acid-base symptoms such as SOB, tachypnoea, hyperpnoea
CNS defects such as hearing loss or tinnitus, dizziness, movement disorders, asterixis, seizures
what investigations should be completed
ABG (for acid base disturbance)
bloods (for serum electrolytes and salicylate levels)
how can the anion gap be calculated
Na + K - Cl -HCO3
why is an ECG requireed
sinus tachycardia (common) prolonged corrected QT interval is associated with severe ventricular dysarrythmias
what are kussmauls respirations
deep laboured breathing due to severe metabolic acidosis (DKA)
what is the mneumonic for SEs of aspirin
ASPIRIN
Asthma Salicylism (N+V + tinnitus) Peptic Ulcer Disease Intestial Blood LOss Reyes syndrome Idiosyncracy Noise (tinnitus)
what is salicylism
N+V
tinnitus
