Chemical and traumatic occupational eye exposures in aviation personnel.

Introduction: The eye is vulnerable to chemical exposure and foreign body infiltration in the occupational setting. Individuals working in the aviation field are prone to these types of exposures.

Methods: We conducted a 28-mo retrospective chart review to document the number of airline workers complaining of chemical or foreign body exposure to the eye at an onsite airport medical clinic.

Adenosine-induced cardiopulmonary arrest in a patient with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia.

Adenosine is commonly used for the chemical termination of supraventricular tachycardia. In addition, even when it is ineffective as an agent of chemical cardioversion, it may slow the cardiac rate to allow an analysis of the underlying rhythm. Common adverse effects include facial flushing, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

Fentanyl epidemic in Chicago, Illinois and surrounding Cook County.

Introduction: Epidemics related to illicit fentanyl abuse have been reported and the potential exists for a national epidemic associated with high mortality. This report describes emergency department visits for opioid toxicity and a recent outbreak of illicit fentanyl fatalities in Chicago, Illinois and surrounding Cook County.

Methods: Retrospective chart review of opioid-related overdoses seen in our emergency department and a retrospective review of data from the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office Fentanyl Fatality Database from April 2005 through December 2006.

Geriatric trauma in the State of Illinois: substance use and injury patterns.

As the elderly population increases and they lead more active and healthy lifestyles, their exposure to the threats of injury multiply. Undoubtedly, the geriatric population will comprise a growing percentage of trauma patients. The role of alcohol and drug use in geriatric trauma has not been clearly defined.