Differential Diagnosis of Prolonged PTT with a Normal PT Heparin in the specimen, which may be a result of heparin treatment of the patient Treatment with low molecular weight heparin, argatroban, or lepirudin A lupus anticoagulant (i.e., lupus inhibitor) Deficiency of factor VIII (hemophilia A) or IX (hemophilia B)Continue Reading Deficiency of factor VIII (mild…
At a Glance Acute iron poisoning from accidental ingestion of iron supplementation is one of the leading causes of pediatric overdose mortality; therefore, iron toxicity should be considered in any case of pediatric overdose. The clinical presentation of iron toxicity manifests in four distinct stages: Continue Reading Stage I (30 min to 6 hours) includes…
At a Glance Patients with lead poisoning usually present with nonspecific signs and symptoms, such as abdominal pain, constipation, irritability, difficulty concentrating and anemia. However, the symptoms vary depending on the age of the patient and the route and length of exposure. In acute lead toxicity, ataxia, mental confusion, nausea, and vomiting can be seen.…
At a Glance Heavy metal toxicity should be considered in any patient presenting with renal disease of unexplained origin, bilateral neuropathy, acute changes in mental function, or a history of exposure (such as occupational exposure). Arsenic is probably the best known of the metal toxins. It targets the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, skin, bone marrow, kidneys,…
Mercury Toxicity Levels At a Glance Heavy metal or mercury toxicity levels should be considered in any patient presenting with renal disease of unexplained origin, bilateral neuropathy, acute changes in mental function, or a history of exposure, such as occupational exposure. Patients with mercury toxicity can present with signs and/or symptoms suggestive of either acute…
