12.09.28 Stuff

Capillary leak syndrome

• • Self-reversing episodes during which the endothelial cells which line the capillaries are thought to separate for a few days

  • Possible prodromal symptoms:

    • Runny nose and/or other flu-like symptoms

    • Gastro-intestinal disorders (diarrhea or vomiting)

    • General weakness or pain in limbs

  • Signs:

    • hemoconcentration

    • hypotension

    • hypoalbuminemia

    • partial or generalized oedema

  • Phases:

    • Capillary leak phase

      • Lasts from 1 to 3 days

      • Up to 70% of total plasma volume may invade cavities in the trunk and extremities

    • Recruitment phase

      • Reabsorption of the initially extravasated fluid

      • Usually lasts just as long as the leak phase

      • Can => polyuria, PE

  • Prevention

    • Beta agonists such as theophylline, terbutaline and montelukast sodium

    • IVIG

Notes