Cardiac Tamponade Caused by Epigastric Acupuncture: A Case Report.
10.4266/kjccm.2011.26.4.281
- Author:
Jong Kun KIM
1
Author Information
1. Department of Emergency Medicine, Chilgok Kyungpook National University Hospital, Korea. kim7155@yahoo.co.kr
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords:
acupuncture;
adverse effects;
cardiac tamponade
- MeSH:
Acupuncture;
Acupuncture Therapy;
Aged;
Cardiac Tamponade;
Cardiomegaly;
Dyspepsia;
Funnel Chest;
Hepatitis;
Humans;
Hypotension;
Male;
Pericardial Effusion;
Pericardiocentesis;
Pneumothorax;
Shock;
Thorax
- From:The Korean Journal of Critical Care Medicine
2011;26(4):281-284
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Acupuncture is considered a relatively safe procedure. However, there are serious adverse effects; neurological damage, pneumothorax, cardiac tamponade, serum hepatitis, bacterial and viral infections may occur. Cardiac tamponade is considered to be a rare adverse effect of acupuncture. In the following case, cardiac tamponade was caused by epigastric acupuncture. A 78-year-old male was admitted with a chief complaint of drowsy mentality and hypotension, suggesting a status of shock. He had received acupuncture therapy over epigastric area for gastric dyspepsia at a local oriental medical clinic. An abdominal CT scan and chest x-ray showed a hemopericardium. After receiving pericardiocentesis, his clinical condition improved immediately. He was short in stature and slender for his age. Chest x-ray and computed tomography showed cardiomegaly and pectus excavatum. A proper use of acupuncture by a skilled medical provider is essential to avoid serious complications.
