Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
2613687 | Wilderness & Environmental Medicine | 2010 | 4 Pages |
Abstract
Steroids are used for the prevention and treatment of high-altitude illnesses. However, these agents can cause significant side effects. We report a case of altered mental status, gastrointestinal bleeding, skin rash, and avascular necrosis in a climber taking prophylactic dexamethasone prior to an attempt to climb Mt Everest. High-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), steroid toxicity, and acute adrenal crisis can have similar clinical presentations. Differentiating between these life-threatening conditions at high altitude is essential for successful treatment.
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Authors
Bishnu Hari Subedi, Jhapindra Pokharel, Torrey L. Goodman, Sanuraja Amatya, Luanne Freer, Nalin Banskota, Eric Johnson, Buddha Basnyat,