From the Research
Inpatient Treatment for Anasarca
- The inpatient treatment for anasarca may involve a combination of therapies, including diuretics, compression bandaging, and renal replacement therapy 1, 2.
- Diuretic therapy, such as loop diuretics and potassium-sparing diuretics, may be used to reduce edema, but may be limited by hypotension and other side effects 1.
- Multicomponent compression bandaging may be used in conjunction with diuretic therapy to reduce edema and improve symptoms 1.
- Renal replacement therapy (RRT) may be considered in cases of refractory hepatorenal syndrome with severe anasarca, as a bridging therapy until liver function improves 2.
- Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PD5Is) may be used to treat anasarca in patients with cor pulmonale and prerenal azotemia, by reducing pulmonary hypertension and improving renal function 3.
- Treatment of anasarca should be individualized and based on the underlying cause and severity of the condition, as well as the patient's overall health status 1, 2, 3.
- Monitoring for potential complications, such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), is important when using certain medications, such as torsemide, to treat anasarca 4.
Risk Factors and Complications
- Certain risk factors, such as age, nutritional status, and comorbidities, may increase the likelihood of developing anasarca, particularly in the postoperative period 5.
- Anasarca is associated with poor patient outcomes, including delayed recovery and increased risk of complications, such as multiple organ dysfunction 5.
- Early recognition and treatment of anasarca are critical to preventing long-term consequences and improving patient outcomes 1, 2, 5.