CLINICAL RECOGNITION AND TREATMENT OF ACUTE POTASSIUM INTOXICATION

Abstract

Nine cases of acute spontaneous K intoxication are reported with observations on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of the syndrome. Pre-existing renal disease usually with decreased urine volume is always present. K intoxication may be a fatal accompaniment of otherwise reversible renal disease. The ecg. changes are typical, offer the most accurate method for early diagnosis and for following treatment. The admn. of Ca salts, hypertonic Na solns., glucose-insulin mixtures is effective therapeutically, the last named being most effective. Hemo-dialysis with the artificial kidney is the most effective and lasting method of combatting the syndrome, though other methods, such as intestinal lavage may have promise.