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Hot Chip Challenge: Acute Gastrointestinal Bleeding in a Pediatric Patient on Left Ventricular Assist Device
Marcus Kelm1,2,3, Oliver Miera1,2, Julia Moosmann1,2
1Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité, Department of Congenital Heart Disease-Pediatric Cardiology, Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin, Germany.
Insights
Pediatric patients with left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) face high gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) risks. A spicy chip challenge triggered acute GIB in a young LVAD patient, emphasizing lifestyle impacts.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Gastroenterology
- Pediatric Medicine
Background:
- Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is a critical complication in pediatric patients with left ventricular assist devices (LVAD), especially those on anticoagulation.
- Dietary indiscretion can exacerbate bleeding risks in this vulnerable population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of acute GIB in a pediatric LVAD patient triggered by a dietary challenge.
- To highlight the influence of lifestyle factors on GIB in pediatric LVAD recipients.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 13-year-old female with a HeartMate 3 LVAD.
- Documented acute GIB following consumption of excessively spicy chips ('Hot Chip Challenge').
Main Results:
- The patient experienced acute GIB requiring blood transfusion and intensive medical management.
- The event was directly linked to the dietary challenge.
Conclusions:
- Lifestyle factors, particularly dietary choices, significantly impact GIB risk in pediatric LVAD patients.
- Vigilance regarding diet is crucial for managing GIB in this population.
Abstract:
Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is the most common and potentially life-threatening bleeding complication in pediatric patients on left ventricular assist devices (LVAD), particularly under anticoagulation. We report a 13-year-old female with dilated cardiomyopathy on HeartMate 3 support who developed acute GIB after participating in a "Hot Chip Challenge," consuming excessive spicy chips. The bleeding required blood transfusion and intensive management. This case highlights the potential impact of lifestyle factors, especially dietary choices, on GIB risk in pediatric LVAD patients.
