1. Introduction:
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- Neurological emergencies require prompt recognition and intervention to prevent further damage.
- As a medical student, understanding basic principles of evaluation and management is crucial, even if you encounter these emergencies infrequently.
2. Neurological Emergencies:
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- These situations appear abruptly and often have a volatile course.
- Early and aggressive approaches are recommended for management.
- Common neurological emergencies include:
- Altered Conscious Level: Immediate assessment and prompt management are crucial to prevent further damage.
- Seizures: Rapid intervention to stop ongoing seizures.
- Stroke: Rapid evaluation for thrombolysis or endovascular therapy.
- Meningitis/Encephalitis: Early antibiotics or antivirals.
- Increased Intracranial Pressure: Swift measures to reduce pressure.
- Status Epilepticus: Urgent seizure control.
- Neuromuscular Respiratory Failure: Ventilatory support.
- Spinal Cord Compression: Immediate decompression.
- Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: Discontinue offending drugs.
- Myasthenic Crisis: Respiratory support and immunotherapy.
- Guillain-Barré Syndrome: Plasmapheresis or immunoglobulins.
- Neurovascular Emergencies: Aneurysm rupture, arteriovenous malformation, etc.
- Neuro-Oncological Emergencies: Seizures, raised intracranial pressure, etc.
Remember, your neurology clerkship provides valuable exposure to these emergencies. Stay curious, learn actively, and apply your knowledge compassionately!
References:
1 aan.com
2 academic.oup.com
3 books.google.com
4 link.springer.com
5 library.med.utah.edu
Verified by Dr. Petya Stefanova
