Emergency management of autonomic dysreflexia with neurologic complications

CMAJ, 2016 · DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.151311 · Published: October 18, 2016

Simple Explanation

Autonomic dysreflexia is a condition where individuals with high-thoracic or cervical spinal cord injuries experience severe, life-threatening bouts of hypertension. This hypertension, termed autonomic dysreflexia, can lead to neurologic complications. Prompt management using antihypertensive agents and central nervous system depressants can resolve these complications.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

A 59-year-old man

Evidence Level

Case Report

Key Findings

1
Severe autonomic dysreflexia can cause significant clinical complications such as blurred vision and seizures.
2
Autonomic dysreflexia may lead to posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, characterized by abnormalities on brain imaging.
3
Emergency management of autonomic dysreflexia requires a combination of non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic measures.

Research Summary

The case report describes a patient with a spinal cord injury who presented with severe hypertension, headache, vision loss, and seizures, which was diagnosed as posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome secondary to autonomic dysreflexia triggered by a urinary tract infection. The patient was treated with antihypertensives and other medications, leading to resolution of symptoms and no lasting neurological impairments. The report emphasizes the importance of recognizing and promptly managing autonomic dysreflexia to prevent life-threatening complications.

Practical Implications

Clinical Recognition

Increased awareness among healthcare providers for early recognition of autonomic dysreflexia symptoms in spinal cord injury patients.

Emergency Management Protocols

Implementation of standardized protocols for managing autonomic dysreflexia in emergency departments to reduce complications.

Long-Term Follow-Up

Importance of continuous monitoring and management to prevent recurrence of autonomic dysreflexia and associated neurological issues.

Emergency management of autonomic dysreflexia with neurologic complications

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Clinical Recognition

Emergency Management Protocols

Long-Term Follow-Up

Study Limitations

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Emergency management of autonomic dysreflexia with neurologic complications

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Clinical Recognition

Emergency Management Protocols

Long-Term Follow-Up

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?