Disseminated intravascular coagulation developed in hyperbaric oxygen

Area of Science:

• Physiology
• Toxicology
• Hematology

Background:

• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is used for various medical conditions.
• Understanding the physiological effects of hyperbaric oxygen is crucial for safety.
• Previous research has indicated potential risks associated with high oxygen concentrations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of different partial pressures of oxygen under hyperbaric conditions on the hemostasis system.
• To determine the threshold for hyperbaric oxygen-induced disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
• To assess the physiological changes, including acidosis, associated with hyperbaric oxygen exposure.

Main Methods:

• Male rats were exposed to hyperbaric conditions with varying oxygen and nitrogen mixtures.
• Hemostasis parameters were monitored.
• Blood gas analysis was performed to measure acidosis.
• Histological examination was conducted to identify perivascular bleeding.

Main Results:

• Exposure to 100% oxygen at 2 ATA resulted in rapid mortality within 48 hours.
• At 1 ATA of 100% oxygen, rats developed disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and uncompensated acidosis (pH 7.34) within 24-48 hours, with perivascular bleeding observed.
• A 60% oxygen/40% nitrogen mixture induced minimal DIC, while a 40% oxygen/60% nitrogen mixture showed no hemostatic changes in rats.
• Human volunteers exposed to 60% oxygen/40% nitrogen exhibited early DIC symptoms, leading to experiment termination.

Conclusions:

• Hyperbaric oxygen exposure, particularly at high concentrations and pressures, significantly disrupts hemostasis, leading to DIC and acidosis.
• Even moderately high oxygen mixtures can initiate DIC symptoms in humans.
• These findings highlight the critical importance of carefully controlling oxygen partial pressures in hyperbaric environments to prevent adverse hematological effects.