Arginine extravasation leading to skin necrosis.

Abstract

Arginine hydrochloride is used in the evaluation of short stature and in the management of urea cycle disorders. In recent times, it has been used in the treatment of stroke-like episodes of MELAS (mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, stroke-like episodes). We want to highlight the need for good intravenous access and monitoring the drip site to prevent extravasation injuries that can be caused by arginine, which is a hyperosmolar solution.

• Authors: Mary B Abraham, Jasper van der Westhuyzen, Vikrant Khanna
• Journal: Journal of paediatrics and child health (J Paediatr Child Health) Vol. 48 Issue 3 Pg. E96-7 (Mar 2012) ISSN: 1440-1754 [Electronic] Australia
• PMID: 21535285 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
• Copyright: © 2011 The Authors. Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health © 2011 Paediatrics and Child Health Division (Royal Australasian College of Physicians).

Chemical References

• Arginine

Topics

• Acidosis, Lactic (drug therapy)
• Arginine (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Child
• Extravasation of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Materials
• Humans
• Male
• Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathies (drug therapy)
• Necrosis (chemically induced)
• Outcome Assessment, Health Care
• Queensland
• Seizures (drug therapy)
• Skin (physiopathology)