Abstract: PO1449
Hyperkalemia Secondary to Carbapenem Use
Session Information
- Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Disorders: Clinical - 1
October 22, 2020 | Location: On-Demand
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Disorders
- 902 Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Disorders: Clinical
Author
- Karam, Sabine, Saint George Hospital University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
Introduction
Hyperkalemia can be a life-threatening complication and can often occur in the hospital setting as the result of the use of certain medications. In particular, hyperkalemia has already been described as a rare complication of ertapenem use.
Case Description
A 24 year-old gentleman with no past medical or surgical history presented with a one week history of abdominal pain and nausea. He underwent a CT scan that showed a perforated appendix with small abscesses. Upon admission, his creatinine level was 1.28 mg/dL and his potassium level was 4.24 mEq/L. He was initiated on intravenous fluids and ertapenem 1g IV once daily. His renal function improved and his creatinine level decreased to 0.83 mg/dL however he developped hyperkalemia with a potassium level that peaked at 5.9 mEq/L. He was switched to meropenem, however the hyperkalemia persisted and resolved only when he was switched to ciprofloxacin.
Discussion
Carbapenem use is associated with severe hyperkalemia and this complication seems to stem from a class-effect rather than the effect of a specific drug.