title: Altitude-induced arterial gas embolism: a case report.
abstract: Following a rapid decompression in an altitude chamber for routine training purposes, a 38-year-old altitude chamber technician developed rapid onset of mental dullness, right arm weakness, and sensory deficits. Immediate treatment with compression therapy in a hyperbaric chamber resulted in complete resolution. Ambient pressure changes great enough to result in arterial air embolism due to an explosive or rapid decompression have been described as a potential hazard in aviation, although no actual cases of such a phenomenon have been previously reported. The aeromedical considerations of this complication are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Jefferson C. Davis Hyperbaric Laboratory, Brooks Air Force Base, TX 78235-5000.
authors.forename: F W
authors.initials: FW
authors.lastname: Rudge
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000531:Altitude; D002985:Clinical Protocols / Q000592:standards; D003664:Decompression / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004618:Embolism, Air / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D005440:Fluid Therapy; D006801:Humans; D006931:Hyperbaric Oxygenation; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous; D008012:Lidocaine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008297:Male
chemical_list: D008012:Lidocaine