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Updated: Nov 1, 2025

A Model of Self-limited Acute Lung Injury by Unilateral Intra-bronchial Acid Instillation
Published on: August 30, 2019
Albuterol, Acidosis, and Aneurysms
Lucy Ma1, Christopher Russo1, Raj Singaraju1
1is a Resident, and is an Attending Physician, both at the National Capital Consortium in Bethesda. is a Medical Student at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, all in Maryland.
A patient developed acute kidney injury and anion-gap metabolic acidosis after nebulizer therapy for dyspnea. This case highlights potential adverse effects of common respiratory treatments.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Pulmonology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Dyspnea is a common respiratory symptom requiring treatment.
- Nebulizer therapy is frequently used for respiratory conditions.
- Patients with complex medical histories may be at higher risk for adverse events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of acute kidney injury and metabolic acidosis following nebulizer therapy.
- To discuss potential mechanisms and clinical implications of this adverse event.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a single patient.
- Review of patient's medical history and clinical course.
- Analysis of laboratory findings and treatment response.
Main Results:
- The patient developed asymptomatic acute kidney injury (AKI) and anion-gap metabolic acidosis 72 hours after initiating nebulizer therapy.
- The exact cause remains undetermined, but potential links to the therapy are discussed.
Conclusions:
- Nebulizer therapy, while common, can be associated with unexpected adverse effects such as AKI and metabolic acidosis.
- Vigilance for these complications is warranted in patients receiving such treatments, especially those with comorbidities.
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