BACKGROUND
A 38-year-old man experiences sudden deterioration after being admitted to the ICU because of severe pneumococcal pneumonia and septic shock. Severe metabolic acidosis secondary to lactic acid accumulation occurs. The physical examination reveals marked abdominal distention. What is the diagnosis?
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Hint
This is a potentially lethal complication.
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Author:
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Sat Sharma, MD
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Associate Professor, University of Manitoba, Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary Medicine
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eMedicine Editor:
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Bruce Maycher, MD
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University of Manitoba
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eMedicine Case
