Decompression Sickness Presenting as a Viral Syndrome

Abstract

Decompression sickness (DCS) is a well-known hazard of exposure to significant variations in ambient pressure. The diagnosis and management of DCS is frequently a source of confusion. Although the majority of cases are manifested by joint or limb pains (Type I DCS), patients may present with a wide array of symptoms, such as neurologic deficits, headache, fatigue, nausea, and respiratory difficulty. A thorough knowledge of the differential diagnosis and a strong index of suspicion are crucial to the proper management of DCS. Presented herein are two cases of altitude-related DCS which were confused initially with a viral syndrome. A discussion of the symptoms of DCS is included. Keywords: Decompression sickness; Altitude chamber; Viral; Recompression; Hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 1989
Accession Number
ADA223880

Entities

People

  • Frederick W. Rudge

Organizations

  • United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aerospace Medicine
  • Air Force
  • Air Force Facilities
  • Altitude Chambers
  • Availability
  • Chambers
  • Classification
  • Decompression Sickness
  • Health
  • Health Care
  • Health Services
  • Hyperbaric Chambers
  • Medical Personnel
  • Pain
  • Signs And Symptoms
  • Therapy
  • United States

Fields of Study

  • Medicine

Readers

  • Educational Psychology
  • Marine Mammal Biology
  • Neurotrauma and Rehabilitation Medicine.