Cinchonism Definition
Cinchonism is defined as a pathological disorder involving a prolonged or excessive use of a white-crystalline alkloid component called quinine, or its natural supplier -the cinchona bark. Quinine is primarily used for treating resistant malaria, night-time muscle cramps, as well as can act as an "abortifacient". It can harmfully affect nearly all body system, the most common being cinchonism or quinine poisoning.
Cinchonism Diagnosis
The disorder is diagnosed through blood test for blood sugar, blood count, renal function tests, urinalysis, prothrombin time, and electrolytes. Periodic examinations of the eyes must have visual acuity test. Other methods for diagnosis include electrooculogram, color testing, and dark adaptations.
Cinchonism Treatment
Most symptoms can be reversed and resolved through discontinuing the use of quinine. Mild symptoms typically resolve promptly; however, severe symptoms may persist for several months. Quinine is quickly absorbed, so any attempts to take out quinine in the stomach through gastric lavage might not be effectual. Multiple-dose of activated charcoal has shown to reduce concentrations of plasma quinine.
Cinchonism Symptoms and Signs
Mild cinchonism symptoms include vasodilation, headache, sweating, tinnitus, nausea, dizziness, hearing impairment, color perception disturbance, and blurred vision. More severe manifestations include diarrhea, vomiting, deafness, abdominal pain, blindness, and cardiac rhythm disturbances.
Cinchonism Causes
The main cause is quinine overdose.
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Cure for cinchonism