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Acyclovir extravasation in a newborn: a case report
Shirin Shamel1, Mohammad Reza Zarkesh2,3
1Department of Neonatology, Yas Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Sarv Ave., North Nejatolahi Street, Tehran, 1598718311, Iran.
Insights
Acyclovir extravasation caused soft tissue damage in a neonate. Prompt management with hyaluronidase, limb elevation, and cold compression led to significant improvement, highlighting the importance of early intervention.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal care
- Pediatric pharmacology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Acyclovir, an antiviral medication, can cause extravasation injury.
- Neonates are particularly vulnerable to drug extravasation due to delicate tissues.
Observation:
- A neonate developed swelling and discoloration after intravenous acyclovir administration.
- Symptoms appeared shortly after the second dose, indicating a rapid reaction.
Findings:
- Immediate management included catheter removal, hyaluronidase injection, limb elevation, and cold compression.
- Significant improvement in swelling and discoloration was observed within 4 hours.
Implications:
- Early recognition and management of acyclovir extravasation are crucial in neonates.
- Standardized treatment protocols are needed to optimize outcomes for neonatal extravasation injuries.
Objective:
Extravasation of infused drugs is not a rare problem in medical practice. Acyclovir is a vesicant and an antiviral medication commonly used for young children. In the present study, we presented a neonate with soft tissue damage due to acyclovir extravasation.
Case Report:
A female newborn (Iranian, Asian) with gestational age 37+2 weeks and breech presentation was born by Cesarean delivery from a mother with a recent history of Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection (Yas Women's Hospital, Tehran, Iran). Intravenous administration of acyclovir was initiated through a peripheral catheter inserted on the dorsal side of the left hand. A few minutes after the second dose, the patient showed a diffused firm swelling, local discoloration, and induration in the dorsum of the hand. The peripheral catheter was removed immediately. Hyaluronidase was injected subcutaneously in five different regions around the catheterization site. Intermittent limb elevation and cold compression (for 10 minutes) were applied. Serial follow-ups and examinations were performed hourly to check limb inflammation, ischemia, and compartment syndrome. The limb swelling and discoloration significantly improved 4 hours after the second dose of hyaluronidase.
Conclusion:
Early diagnosis of acyclovir extravasation and immediate management could prevent severe complications in neonates. Further studies are needed to suggest a standard approach and treatment protocol for acyclovir extravasation.
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