Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 16, 2026
07:54
Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) with Target Controlled Infusion (TCI) and Bispectral Analysis in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Published on: December 6, 2016
Upper-airway obstruction instigated by Sweet's syndrome
Jans Bouw1, Arnon P Kater, Joost van Tongeren
1Department of Intensive Care Medicine Academic Medical Center (AMC), University of Amsterdam, and the Red Cross Hospital Beverwijk, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Summary
This case report details a severe Sweet's syndrome reaction in a myelodysplastic syndrome patient, presenting as airway compromise. Prompt corticosteroid treatment led to rapid recovery, highlighting a critical airway complication.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Hematology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Sweet's syndrome presents with tender, red/purple skin lesions and can involve pathergy.
- Cutaneous pathergy manifests as skin reactions post-procedure like venipuncture or biopsy.
- Severe skin reactions in Sweet's syndrome can be life-threatening.
Observation:
- A patient with myelodysplastic syndrome developed progressive skin lesions and pharyngeal edema.
- The patient required emergency intubation due to airway compromise following bone marrow aspiration.
- Skin biopsy confirmed Sweet's syndrome.
Findings:
- This is the first reported case of Sweet's syndrome causing airway compromise.
- Progressive dermal infiltration and edema led to the compromised airway.
- Treatment involved corticosteroids and discontinuation of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor.
Implications:
- Highlights a rare but severe complication of Sweet's syndrome.
- Emphasizes the importance of recognizing airway involvement in Sweet's syndrome.
- Demonstrates effective management strategies including corticosteroids.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Esophageal Achalasia
Esophageal achalasia is a chronic neurogenic disorder characterized by impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and absent or ineffective peristalsis in the distal esophagus. This leads to a functional obstruction without a physical blockage, despite significant disruption of esophageal motility.EtiologyAchalasia is caused by degeneration of the myenteric (Auerbach's) plexus, specifically the loss of inhibitory ganglion cells that produce vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)...
01:11Pyloric Obstruction
Pyloric obstruction, also referred to as gastric outlet obstruction, is a condition characterized by narrowing or blockage at the pylorus—the muscular valve regulating the flow of stomach contents into the duodenum. When this passage becomes impaired, the stomach cannot effectively empty its contents into the small intestine. This disruption leads to a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including early satiety, bloating, epigastric pain, postprandial nausea, persistent vomiting, and...
01:22Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Airway management is a key skill in emergency and critical care settings, as maintaining a clear airway is essential for adequate oxygenation and ventilation.Head Tilt-Chin Lift TechniqueThe head tilt-chin lift maneuver is an essential technique primarily used in patients without suspected cervical spine injuries. To perform this maneuver, one hand is placed on the patient’s forehead, and gentle pressure is applied backward to tilt the head. The fingertips of the other hand are positioned under...
01:30Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques
Airway management is essential in emergency and surgical medicine, ensuring ventilation and oxygenation in patients who cannot maintain their own airway. Clinicians use a range of techniques and devices to secure the airway, depending on the patient’s condition and the clinical context. Key methods include endotracheal intubation, rapid sequence intubation (RSI), supraglottic airway devices, and advanced visualization aids. In cases where these approaches fail, surgical airway interventions are...
01:07Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology
Intestinal obstruction triggers a series of physiological responses, starting with gas and fluid accumulation in the bowel segment proximal to the obstruction, leading to distension. This distended intestine compresses the diaphragm, hindering lung expansion and potentially leading to reduced respiratory effort, atelectasis, and pneumonia.To overcome the blockage, the gut intensifies contractions, causing colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which reduces fluid and food intake and...
01:22Trachea
The trachea, commonly known as the windpipe, is a vital part of the human respiratory system. It serves as a passageway for air to travel between the larynx and the bronchi, allowing oxygen to reach the lungs. Let's explore its anatomical features, dimensions, layers of the tracheal wall, associated muscles, and the functions of its parts.
Anatomical Features:
Location: About half of the trachea is situated in the neck, anterior to the esophagus, and extends from the larynx (at the level of the...
Anatomical Features:
Location: About half of the trachea is situated in the neck, anterior to the esophagus, and extends from the larynx (at the level of the...