CardioMEMS monitoring device migration: A rare complication

We present a rare case of CardioMEMS device migration six years post-implantation. Much is still being learned about endothelization of pulmonary vasculature and this case highlights the importance of device surveillance and device-related complications.

Tipped Over the Edge: A Case of Diabetes Ketoacidosis Precipitated by High-Dose Steroids in the Setting of a Large Peritonsillar Abscess

Peritonsillar abscess is an infection of tonsillar soft tissue which can spread into additional neck structures leading to symptoms of fever, sore throat, dysphagia, and airway compromise. We describe a case of diabetic ketoacidosis in a patient with a history of uncontrolled type II diabetes mellitus admitted for a peritonsillar abscess who received intravenous steroids for management of the abscess swelling. The patient was treated with an insulin drip, hydration, and electrolyte replacement with a resolution to his anion gap and metabolic acidosis. Diabetic ketoacidosis occurs during increased gluconeogenesis leading to ketosis and metabolic acidosis which can be a life-threatening condition if not quickly recognized and treated. This case highlights the importance of monitoring and treating elevated blood glucose in acutely ill patients receiving steroid therapy.

[A case of primary cardiac tumor in childhood. Echographic and anatomo-pathologic study]

Primary cardiac tumors are rare in children. The benign forms constitute 90% of cases, with often fatal clinical course due to the origin site. Here is reported a case of fibroelastic hamartoma in a four month baby, with multiple malformations, in which the initial signs have been alterations of ECG and of the cardiac profile at Rx chest. Bidimensional echocardiography suggested the correct diagnosis, revealing the mass in the interventricular septum. Cardiac catheterization excluded connections with coronary arteries. The baby died before cardiosurgical operation, probably because of a hyperkinetic ventricular arrhythmia. Anatomo-pathologic examination discusses the diagnosis of this tumor versus other kinds, defining our case as a fibroelastic hamartoma.