2018B
2018 (2nd sitting)
Question 1
Question
Describe the surface anatomy of the anterior neck (30% of marks) and the underlying structures relevant to performing a tracheostomy (70% of marks).
Example answer
Structure
- Fibromuscular tube ~10cm long
- Supported by 16-20 incomplete cartilaginous rings which joined by fibroelastic tissue and are connected posteriorly by smooth muscle (the trachealis)
- Divided into cervical and thoracic parts
Course
- Trachea begins approximately C6 where it is continuous with the larynx
- Trachea travels inferoposteriorly
- Enters thoracic cavity through the superior thoracic aperture, at the level of the jugular notch
- Ends approximately at level of sternal angle (T4/5) where it divides into left and main bronchi
Relations
- Posterior: oesophagus
- Anterior: thyroid gland (isthmus), cervical fascia, manubrium, thymus remnants,
- Right lateral: thyoid gland (lobe), carotid sheath ( common carotid, vagus, IJV), RLN
- Left lateral: thyroid gland (lobe), carotid sheath ( common carotid, vagus, IJV), RLN
Neurovascular supply
- SNS: sympathetic trunks
- PSNS: recurrent laryngeal and vagus nerves
- Arterial supply: Branches from inferior thyroid arteries
- Venous drainage: Inferior thyroid veins
Surface anatomy of anterior neck (superior --> inferior)
- Hyoid bone (C3)
- Thyroid cartilage
- Cricothyroid membrane
- Cricoid cartilage (C6)
- Thyroid gland
- Sternohyoid muscle just lateral to the midline structures, overlies sternothyroid and thyrohyoid
Layers of dissection in tracheostomy (from anterior --> posterior)
- Skin
- Subcutaneous tissue
- Fat
- Pretracheal fascia
- Fibroelastic tissue between tracheal cartilage rings
- Trachea
Examiner comments
79% of candidates passed this question.
Answers required a description of the surface anatomy outlining the midline structures including
the hyoid bone and cartilages. The tissue layers should have been mentioned as should the
relevant tracheal anatomy. The anterior, posterior and lateral relations of the trachea should
also have been included along with the relevant nerves and blood vessels. Diagrams were not
essential but could have been included.
Candidates should note that marks were not awarded for a description of how to perform a
tracheostomy.
Online resources for this question
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Question 2
Question
Compare and contrast amiodarone and digoxin.
Example answer
Name | Digoxin | Amiodarone |
---|---|---|
Class | Cardiac glycoside (antiarrhythmic) | Antiarrhythmic (Class III), though other class (I, II, IV) activity |
Indications | tachyarrhythmias (e.g. AF, SVT), heart failure | Tachyarrhythmias (e.g. SVT, VT, WPW) |
Pharmaceutics | 62.5mcg/250mcg (PO tablets) 25/250 mcg/ml (IV) |
100-200mg tablets Clear solution in ampoules (150mg) for dilution in dextrose |
Routes of administration | IV and PO | IV and PO |
Dose | Generally load with 250-500mcg, then 62.5-125mcg daily thereafter. Digoxin level (0.7 - 1.0) for most conditions. | IV: 5mg/kg, then 15mg/kg infusion / 24hrs. Oral: 200mg TDS (1/52) > BD (1/52) > daily |
pKA | 7.2 | 6.6 (highly lipid soluble) |
Pharmacodynamics | ||
MOA | Direct cardiac: inhibits Na/K ATPase > increased Ca > positive inotropic effect + increased refractory period Indirect cardiac: increased PSNS release of ACh at M receptors > slowed conduction at AV node/bundle |
- Blocks K channels (Class III effects) prolonging repolarisation and therefore refractory period. - Decreases velocity of Phase 0 by Blocking Na channels (Class I effects) |
Side effects | CVS: May worsen arrhythmia (lead to VF), AV block, shortened QT interval, scooped ST, TWI, bradycardia GIT: nausea, anorexia, vomiting |
Side effects worsen w. time! RESP: pneumonitis, fibrosis |
Pharmacokinetics | ||
Onset | 2-3 hours (PO), 10-30mins (IV), duration of action 3-4 days | Immediate (IV), 4 hours (PO) |
Absorption | 80% oral bioavailability | PO bioavailability 40-60% |
Distribution | Protein binding 25% VOD 6-7L/kg |
Highly protein bound (>95%) VOD: ~70L /kg |
Metabolism | Minimal hepatic metabolism (15%) | Hepatic (CYP3A4) with active metabolites (desmethylamiodarone) |
Elimination | T 1/2 48 hours urine excretion (70% unchanged) |
T 1/2 = 1 monthFaces, urine, skin |
Special points | Reduce dose in renal failure, monitor with dig level. not removed by dialysis | Amiodarone increases digoxin level (by preventing renal excretion and lowering protein binding) |
Examiner comments
82% of candidates passed this question.
Most candidates had a good structure for answering this question; a table was commonly used.
Marks were awarded for indications and an explanation of the mechanism of action of both
drugs, which was generally well explained. The pharmacodynamic effects were often listed in a
general manner and more detail would have achieved a higher mark, including a list of the ECG
effects. Some detail on the pharmacokinetics and adverse effects of the drugs was expected
and this section was generally well answered. Better answers noted digoxin levels and potential
drug interactions.
Online resources for this question
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Question 3
Question
Explain the causes of the differences between measured end tidal and arterial partial pressures of carbon dioxide (CO2).
Example answer
ETCO2 - PaCO2 gradient
- There is normally a gradient between PaCO2 and ETCO2 of 0-5mmHg (where ETCO2 is lower)
- The difference between the values is due to alveolar dead space
- Alveolar dead space is due to alveoli which are ventilated but not perfused (e.g. west zone 1 lungs)
- These alveoli do not participate in gas exchange (there is no perfusion), thus contain very little CO2 and a lot of O2 (the same amount as in inspired air)
- This relatively CO2 deplete gas mixes with the rest of the expired gas, diluting the ETCO2 reading, thus leading to an observed discrepancy
- Note: It is not due to anatomical dead space as this gas has already been washed out in the early stages of exhalation and thus does not contributed to ETCO2
- Healthy/awake patients have near zero alveolar dead space, so near zero gradient
Factors affecting ETCO2 - PaCO2 gradient
Changes in pulmonary perfusion
Global reduction in pulmonary perfusion
e.g. pHTN, heart failure, Cardiac arrest, Severe shock
Regional decreases in pulmonary perfusion
e.g. pulmonary embolism, fat embolism
Changes in ventilation
Excessively high PEEP --> increased West Zone 1
Measurement error
Inline HME filters
Timing of measurement (measuring before end-expiration)
Poor / loss of ETCO2 calibration
Interference from other gases (e.g. N2O and collision broadening)
Physiological factors
Increasing age > increased gradient
Examiner comments
29% of candidates passed this question.
The answer required an explanation of the causes of the difference between the PaCO2 and ETCO2. This required recognising how the end point of phase 3 of the capnograph trace corresponds with end tidal CO2. The difference is caused by the alveolar dead space. The difference is normally very small in healthy adults with the ETCO2 being lower than the PaCO2. It is increased with increasing alveolar dead space. Many incorrectly attributed anatomical dead space as a contributor to the PaCO2-ETCO2 gradient. Discussion of the various types of dead space did not score marks. Marks were awarded for the processes that cause an increased gradient e.g. low cardiac output and pulmonary embolism. Recognising physiological factors such as increasing gradient with increasing age scored marks. Marks were not awarded for descriptions on how dead space is measured.
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Question 4
Question
Compare and contrast ketamine and midazolam.
Example answer
Name | Midazolam | Ketamine | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Class | Benzodiazepine (sedative) | Anaesthetic (phencyclidine derivative) | |
Indications | Anaesthesia, sedation, treatment of seizures, anxiolysis | induction GA, conscious sedation, analgesia, | |
Pharmaceutics | IV: clear solution, pH 3.5. Diluted in water. | 100mg/ml. Clear colourless solution. Racemic mixture of S and R enantiomers, or S+ enantiomer alone. Water soluble. | |
Routes of administration | IV, IM, S/C, intranasal, buccal, PO | IV/IM/PO/SC/PR | |
Dose | Dose depends on many pt. factors. 1-5mg premedication. 2.5-10mg seizures. Infusions. | 0-0.25mg/kg/hr (analgesia), 1-2mg/kg (GA), 0.5mg/kg (sedation) | |
pKa | 6.5 | 7.5 | |
Pharmacodynamics | |||
MOA | Midazolam (BZD) binds to GABAA receptors (ionotropic ligand gated channel) in the CNS. Cl enters > hyperpolarisation. | NMDA antagonism, weak opioid receptor agonism, weak Ca ch inhibition | - Ketamine has weak GABA effects |
Effects | CNS: sedation, amnesia, anticonvulsant effects, decreased cerebral O2 demand | CNS: dissociative anaesthesia and analgesia. CVS: increased HR/BP, decreased pulmonary and systemic vascular resistance |
- Ketamine has analgesic and bronchodilator properties - Midaz has anticonvulsant properties |
Side effects | CVS: bradycardia, hypotension CNS: confusion, restlessness |
CNS: emergence reactions including hallucinations, unpleasant dreams. May increase ICP in non vent. pts. CVS: may increase HR/BP, increased myocardial O2 req. |
- Ketamine does not cause respiratory depression and preserves airway reflexes |
Pharmacokinetics | |||
Onset | peak effect 2-3 minutes (IV) | 30s IV, duration of effect 10-20mins | |
Absorption | ~40% oral bioavailability Absorbed well, but sig. 1st pass metabolism |
Lipid soluble > readily absorbed. But poor OBA (16%) due to 1st pass metabolism | Both have poor PO bioavailability |
Distribution | 95% protein bound, very lipid soluble Vd = 1L / kg |
Large (5L/kg) VOD. Small protein binding (25%). Crosses placenta. |
- Midaz will rapidly accumulate with infusions, ketamine will not |
Metabolism | Hepatic metabolism by hydroxylation Active (1-a hydroxymidazolam) and inactive metabolites |
Metabolised by CYP450 > majority inactive metabolites (norketamine active 33% potency) | Similar |
Elimination | Renal excretion T 1/2 = 4 hours |
Elimination T1/2 = 2 hours. Kidneys (95%), faeces (5%) | Both predominately renal excretion |
Special points | Flumazenil - antagonist (reversal agent) | Nil reversal agent | No reversal agent for ketamine - Midaz exhibits tolerance, withdrawal, dependence, ketamine does not. |
Examiner comments
62% of candidates passed this question.
In addition to the key PK and PD properties of each drug, a clear comparison was required to score well (why choose one drug over the other?). When a table was used the addition of a comparison column was helpful. A good answer covered the following: ketamine has analgesic properties whilst midazolam does not; ketamine preserves airway reflexes and does not cause respiratory depression unlike midazolam; whilst ketamine increases cerebral blood flow and CMRO2, midazolam decreases t; ketamine has a direct myocardial depressant effect which is often offset by an increase in sympathetic tone, whilst midazolam has no direct cardiac depressant effects but may reduce BP due to reduced SVR; midazolam has anticonvulsant properties, ketamine does not; ketamine is a bronchodilator; both drug effects are offset by redistribution; midazolam is lipophillic at body pH and will accumulate with prolonged infusions, ketamine will not; both are metabolised in the liver; midazolam can be reliably reversed by flumazenil, whereas there is no reliable complete reversal of ketamine; midazolam exhibits tolerance, dependence and withdrawal, whereas patients will only experience tolerance to the analgesic properties of ketamine. “Drugs in Anaesthesia and Intensive care†chapters on midazolam and ketamine outline the key facts to include in this answer; interpretation and comparison of these facts will help achieve a good mark.
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Question 5
Question
Describe the carriage of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood.
Example answer
Overview
CO2 is constantly produced as a by-product of metabolism and needs to be cleared
CO2 content of blood
Mixed venous: 52mls/100mls blood, at PaCO2 of ~45mmHg
Arterial: 48mls/100mls blood, at PaCO2 of ~40mmHg
CO2 is transported in three main forms in the blood:
Dissolved CO2
- Accounts for
- ~5% of the total carbon dioxide in the blood
- ~10% of the CO2 evolved by the lung
- The amount dissolved is proportional to the partial pressure (Henry's Law)
- 20x more soluble than O2, so dissolved CO2 plays a more significant role in transport
Bicarbonate
Accounts for
~90% of the carbon dioxide in the blood
~60% of the CO2 evolved by the lung
Bicarbonate is formed by the following sequence
<math display="block">CO_2 + H_{2}O \leftrightarrow H_{2}CO_{3} \leftrightarrow H^+ + HCO_3^-</math>Process
CO2 dissolves into RBC and leads to H+ and HCO3 (per above equation)
HCO3 moves into plasma, H+ binds to reduced (deoxy) Hb
Cl moves into the cell to maintain electroneutrality (chloride shift)
When Hb is oxygenated in the lungs, H+ dissociates and coverted back to CO2 by the above equation and is exhaled
Haldane effect accounts for the increased capacity of Hb to carry CO2 when poorly oxygenated
Carbamino compounds
- Accounts for
- ~5% of the CO2 in the blood
- ~30% of the CO2 evolved by the lung
- Formed by the combination of CO2 with terminal amine groups in blood proteins
- Haemoglobin is the most abundant protein and has most imadazole side chains (greatest carrier capacity)
- The reaction occurs faster with deoxHb than oxy-Hb (Haldane effect)
Examiner comments
65% of candidates passed this question.
A definition of arterial and venous CO2 content (mls and partial pressure) and an outline of the 3 forms of CO2 in the blood and their contribution to the AV difference, followed by a detailed explanation of each form of carriage was required for this question. A good answer included a table of the contribution of each form of carriage to arterial and venous content and the AV difference; explained the concepts of chloride shift when describing carriage as HCO3 -; detailed the Haldane effect and its contribution to carbamino carriage and referenced Henry’s law when describing dissolved CO2. West’s Chapter 6 on gas transport details the key information to score well on this question
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Question 6
Question
Outline the determinants of venous return to the heart
Example answer
Venous return
- Rate of blood flow back to the right atrium
- In healthy state: venous return = cardiac output (else pathological pooling of blood occurs)
- Can be defined by following eqns:
- VR = CO
- VR = MSFP - RAP / resistance to venous return
- Therefore factors effecting venous return are those that affect
- MSFP
- RAP
- Resistance to venous return
- Cardiac output
Cardiac output
- Normally ~5L/min
- Increased CO = increased venous reutn
- CO is effected by
- Afterload (reduced afterload = increased cardiac output = increased VR)
- Contractility (increased contractility = increased CO = increased VR)
MSFP
- Normally ~7mmHg
- Increased MSFP = increased VR
- Affected by venomotor tone and blood volume
- Increased VR (= increased blood volume and increased venomotor tone)
RAP
- Normally 2-6mmHg
- Increased RAP = reduced driving pressure = reduced venous return
- Factors which increase RAP
- Positive intrathoracic pressure (e.g. PPV)
- Reduced pericardial compliance (e.g. effusion)
- Reduced RA compliance/contractility (e.g. AF)
- TVR
Resistance to venous return
- Increased RVR = reduced VR (due to ohms law)
- Factors effecting RVR
- Autonomic tone
- Intrabdominal pressure
- IVC Obstruction (e.g. pregnancy) reduces VR
- Posture (decreased VR with erect posture)
- Vasoactive drugs
- skeletal muscle pump
Examiner comments
31% of candidates passed this question.
Answers should have included a description of the need for a pressure gradient for flow and a discussion on right atrial pressure, mean systemic filling pressure and resistance to blood flow. The discussion of each of these factors included definitions, normal values, factors affecting them and the direction of change on venous return. Diagrams were not essential, but their use assisted some candidates in explaining the effects of RAP on venous return.
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Question 7
Question
Describe protein binding and its significance in pharmacology.
Example answer
Protein binding
Drugs in blood can exist in two forms (protein bound, protein unbound)
Protein binding of drugs involves the formation of reversible drug-protein complexes
Protein + drug <-> protein-drug complex
Drugs vary greatly in degree of plasma protein binding
e.g. warfarin and phenytoin which are >95% protein bound
e.g. rocuronium which is approx. 10% protein bound
Types of proteins
Drugs can bind to proteins in the plasma (e.g. albumin, globulins) or tissue
Albumin is the most sig. drug binder and binds neutral/acidic drugs (e.g. barbiturates)
a-1 glycoproteins and globulins bind basic drugs (e.g. morphine)
Haemoglobin can bind some drugs e.g. phenytoin
Effect of protein binding
Only unbound fraction exerts can interact with receptors and exert its pharmacologic effect
Only unbound drug in plasma can freely cross cell membranes
Only unbound drugs can undergo filtration or metabolism
For drugs which are highly protein bound (>90%), small changes in degree of protein binding can have sig. clinical effects. I.e. protein binding from 99% to 98% doubles to unbound (active) drug concentration (from 1% to 2%)
Highly tissue bound drugs have long duration of action, high volume of distribution and readily build up in the body
Protein binding is affected by
Protein factors
Concentration of protein (decreased protein > increased unbound drug)
Number of available protein binding sites
Drug factors
Protein affinity
Concentration of drug - higher drug concentration > saturation of protein > higher unbound (free) drug
Patient factors
temperature and pH
Inflammation, infection, surgery > increased acute phase reactants > increased protein binding
Age
Examiner comments
19% of candidates passed this question.
Descriptions of protein binding were generally too brief (e.g. a statement saying that drugs and hormones bind to proteins in the plasma rather than a description of usually reversible binding with a drug-protein equilibrium). It was expected that the factors which determine protein binding would be described. Marks were attributed if proteins, along with characteristics of the drugs they bind, were named. Candidates achieved better marks if they named the pharmacological parameters affected by protein binding and explained how and why change occurs along with the significance of those changes. Few candidates differentiated between tissue and plasma protein binding and the different effects on the volume of distribution.
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Question 8
Question
Describe gastric emptying (40% of marks) and outline its regulation (60% of marks).
Example answer
Gastric emptying
- The coordinated emptying of chyme from the stomach to the duodenum
- Regulated by food, local mechanical, neural, hormonal and drug factors
- Mechanism
- During fasting
- Migrating motor complexes (Slow peristaltic waves that originate in fundus) sweep through stomach at regular intervals
- Role is to keep the stomach empty of secretions and food debris
- Interrupted by food consumption
- During fed state
- Receptive relaxation of stomach following swollowing
- Tonic contraction / peristalsis > propelling food towards pylorus > mixing
- Small food particles <2mm are pushed through pyloric sphincter at a stable rate
- Half time of solids is ~2 hours
- Liquids empty more rapidly and the rate of emptying is dependant on the antral-duodenal pressure gradient.
- Half time of liquids <30 minutes
- During fasting
Regulation
- Food factors
- Fluids have half time of 30 mins, solids have half time of 2 hours
- Carbohydrates (fastest) > proteins > fatty acids (slowest)
- Tonicity: increased tonicity = decreases emptying rate
- Local factors
- Increased gastric volume > increased gastric emptying
- Duodenal stretch / wall irritation / acidity >reflex inhibition > decreased gastric emptying
- Neural factors
- Increased SNS stimulation > decreased contractility + gastric emptying
- Increased PSNS (vagal) activity > increased contractility + gastric emptying
- Hormonal factors
- secretin (stimulated by low duodenal pH) > decreased emptying
- Cholecystokinin (stimulated by fatty acids) > decreased emptying
- Somatostatin > decreased emptying
- Gastrin (stimulated by stretch, amino acid content) > increased emptying)
- Motilin: stimulates migrating motor complex > increased emptying
- Drugs factors
- e.g. opioids > decreased empyting
- eg. metoclopramide > increased emptying
Examiner comments
24% of candidates passed this question.
Candidates were required to provide a description of gastric emptying (40% marks). Although
the question showed the allocation of marks, many candidates did not provide sufficient detail
for this section. This required some description of what gastric emptying is (the co-ordinated
emptying of chyme from the stomach into the duodenum).
Better answers provided detail regarding the process of gastric emptying in the fed and fasted
state and differentiated between liquids, solids, carbohydrate, protein and fats. Factors
regulating emptying included an outline of peristaltic waves, the basal electrical rhythm and its
modulation, the migratory motor complex (MMC) and its modulation, neural input, stretch and
hormonal control.
Many candidates erred by answering the question "the regulation of gastric secretions" rather
than the question (the regulation of gastric emptying). Although they scored well for hormonal
control, they missed out on marks for the other factors relevant to the regulation of gastric
emptying.
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Question 9
Question
Describe the renal handling of water including the modulation of water excretion
Example answer
Renal handling of water
- Glomerulus
- Water is freely filtered at the glomerulus (~180L / day)
- The amount filtered will depend on the GFR and starlings forces
- Proximal convoluted tubule (PCT)
- Approximately 60-70% of the filtered water is reabsorbed
- Secondary active transport of Na in the PCT creates an osmotic gradient which allows passive absorption of water via osmosis
- Loop of Henle (LOH)
- Approximately 10-15% of the filtered water is reabsorbed in the descending LOH
- Iso-osmotic absorption due to the increased medullary concentration gradient
- The ascending LOH is relatively water impermeable
- Approximately 10-15% of the filtered water is reabsorbed in the descending LOH
- Distal convoluted tubule (DCT)
- Approximately 0-5% water reabsorbed in DCT
- Relatively impermeable
- Collecting duct (CD)
- Reabsorbs 5-20% of the remaining water (depending on the level of ADH)
- ADH inserts luminal aquaporins in collecting duct cells which allows increased reabsorption of water down the osmotic concentration gradient
Regulation
There is an obligatory water loss of ~500mls a day needed for waste clearance
The body also needs to maintain fluid and osmolality homeostasis
The main site of water regulation in the nephron is in the collecting ducts via the action of ADH
Mechanism
Primary:
Osmoreceptors in hypothalamus detect increased osmolality > increased production of ADH > increased release of ADH from posterior pituitary > increased luminal aquaporins in CD > increased water reabsorption
Secondary
Baroreceptors detect reduced blood pressure > increased ADH secretion
ANP/BNP secretion is reduced with decreased BP (stretch) > decreased GFR + activation of RAAS
Examiner comments
37% of candidates passed this question.
This question required a brief introduction of the role the kidney plays in water balance; a more
detailed description of how water is handled as it passes through the various segments of the nephron (glomerulus, PCT, Loop of Henle, DCT and Collecting Duct); the modulation of water excretion by the kidney due to ADH (vasopressin) and how this operates; and the stimuli (osmotic and non-osmotic) for ADH secretion. Although worth mentioning in the context of the effect they have on water movement through the kidney, detailed explanations of Starling's forces in the glomerulus, and of the operation and maintenance of the counter-current mechanism, were not required. More important was describing the control of water reabsorption in the collecting ducts (and thus modulation of water excretion by the kidney) under the influence of ADH
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Question 10
Question
Compare and contrast the pharmacology of vancomycin and flucloxacillin.
Example answer
Name | Vancomycin | Flucloxacillin |
---|---|---|
Class | Glycopeptides (antibiotic) | Penicillins (antibiotic) |
Indications | Severe gram positive infections,MRSA, C.diff | Gram positive infections (particularly staph) |
Pharmaceutics | White powder for reconstitution | Capsule, tablet or white power for reconstitution |
Routes of administration | PO, IV, PR, intrathecal | PO, IV, |
Dose | Dose/interval adjusted according to desired peak/trough levels | 250-1g, every 6 hrs |
Pharmacodynamics | ||
MOA | Inhibits cell wall synthesis by binding to D-ala-D-Ala portion of growing cell wall | Beta-lactam ring binds to penicillin binding protein > prevents crosslinking > impaired cell wall synthesis |
Microbial coverage | Gram positives, including MRSA. C diff coverage | Narrow spectrum Gram positive bacteria |
Side effects | CNS: ototoxicity RENAL: nephrotoxicity |
GIT: diarrhoea, nausea, cholestatic hepatitis IMMUNO: penicillin allergy |
Pharmacokinetics | ||
Absorption | PO bioavailability <1%. Only given orally for C. diff infections. | PO bioavailability 70% |
Distribution | Poor CSF penetration (requires higher dosing) VOD = 0.5L / kg |
95% protein bound VOD = 0.3 L /kg |
Metabolism | No metabolism | Hepatic metabolism |
Elimination | Unchanged in the urine T 1/2 = 6 hrs |
Renal elimination (predominately unchanged) T 1/2 = 1 hour |
Monitoring | Renal function | Monitor LFTs, renal function |
Resistance | Cannot treat VRE (VanA/B resistance genes) | Can treat b-lactamase producing bacteria, but not MRSA (mecA gene) |
Examiner comments
49% of candidates passed this question.
Most candidates structured their answers well. Expected information included: the class of antibiotic of each agent, their respective pharmaceutics, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, indications and adverse effects. Better answers provided pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic information relevant to each drug rather than generic statements. Good answers also included the common resistance mechanisms for both agents.
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Question 11
Question
Describe the anatomy relevant to the insertion of an intercostal catheter.
Example answer
Surface anatomy
- Lateral approach
- ICC is inserted in the 'triangle of safety' based off surface landmarks
- Anterior border: lateral border of the pectoralis major
- Posterior Border: lateral border of latissimus dorsi
- Inferior border: 5th intercostal space
- Superior: base of axilla
- ICC is inserted in the 'triangle of safety' based off surface landmarks
- Anterior approach
- Second intercostal space, midclavicular line
Layers of dissection / path of needle
- Skin
- Subcutaneous tissue
- Pectoralis muscle (in anterior approach only)
- External intercostal muscle
- Internal and innermost intercostal muscles
- Parietal pleura
- Pleural space
Important anatomical considerations
- Intercostal neurovascular bundle
- Sits in the inferior aspect of the rib, between innermost and internal IC muscles
- Vein > artery > nerve (from superior to inferior)
- Care to avoid this by aiming for the rib below, and guiding over the top of the inferior rib
- Anterior approach
- Variable degrees of breast/subcutaneous tissue
- Will also contain the pectoralis major muscle (variable thickness) between subcutaneous tissue and intercostal muscles
- 5th intercostal space
- The reason it is important to place above the 5th intercostal space as this reduces of inadvertently placing the ICC into intrabdominal structures (e.g. liver, spleen) or penetration of the diaphragm (as the diaphragm can go as high as 5th intercostal space during expiration / pregnancy)
- Deeper structures
- Beneath pleural space is the visceral pleura and lung parenchyma, which should be avoided..obviously
- Internal mammary artery / lymphatic ducts
- Too far medial on anterior approach risks damage to these structures
Examiner comments
56% of candidates passed this question.
An anatomy question expects the use of anatomical nomenclature to describe relationships. Good answers defined the “safe triangle†for the lateral approach, soft-tissue layers passed through from skin to pleura and relationship of the neurovascular bundle to the ribs and intercostal muscles. Additional marks were gained for describing the anterior approach and related structures. Common omissions included description of deeper structures (relations) including intrathoracic and intra-abdominal organs and level of the diaphragm with regard to rib space. No marks were awarded for a description of intercostal catheter insertion.
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Question 12
Question
Outline the control of blood glucose.
Example answer
Overview
- Normal blood glucose levels (BGLs) are ~4-6mmol/L
- BGL will rise following carbohydrate consumption
- Regulation of BGL is via short and long term mechanisms
- Insulin and glucagon are the main regulatory hormones
High BGL
- Increased BGL (>6.0mmols) is sensed directly by the pancreas
- The increased glucose is taken up by GLUT receptors > undergoes glycolysis > increased ATP/ADP ratio > depolarisation > exocytosis of insulin from pancreatic B-islet cells
- There is an initial rapid release, followed by a prolonged slow release
- The increased insulin results in
- Increased glucose uptake into cells and Glycogenesis (liver)
- Decreased gluconeogenesis, glycogenolysis and lipolysis
- The net effect is reduced BGL
Low BGL
- Decreased BGL (or during times of fasting) is sensed by pancreas
- Leads to
- Increased glucagon secretion from a-islet cells in pancreas (<3.0 mmols)
- Decreased insulin secretion from the B-islet cells in pancreas (<4.0 mmols)
- Glucagon acts via GPCR (Gs) to
- Increased glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis in the liver
- Increased lipolysis and ketoacid formation
- Hypoglycaemia also directly stimulates the hypothalamus (with prolonged hypoglycaemia, starvation)
- Stimulates GHRH release > decreased glucose uptake + increased fat utilisation
- Stimulates ACTH release > increased cortisol > decreased glucose uptake + increased fat utilisation
- Stimulates TRH release > increased TSH > increased GIT absorption of glucose
- Stimulates "hunger" centre in the lateral hypothalamus > seek food
- Direct SNS stimulation of adrenal medulla > increased adrenaline > increased catabolism
- The net effect is increased BGL
Other factors
- BGL control is interconnected to liver function
- Involved in glycogenolysis/glycogenesis functions regulated by insulin/glucagon
- Hence liver dysfunction can impair its glucostat function and BSL control
- BGL control is interconnected to renal function
- Can help modulate BGL control through control of absorption of glucose
- Other
- Insulin and glucagon also affected by: cholecystokinin, somatostatin, food intake
Examiner comments
53% of candidates passed this question.
A definition of normal glucose levels was expected, mentioning how it is regulated despite variable intake. Most answers incorporated the roles of insulin/glucagon and the glucostat function of the liver. Sufficient detail regarding the mechanism of insulin release was often lacking. Extra marks were awarded for description of the role of the satiety centre in the hypothalamus, glucokinase and processes in fasting and starvation that maintain blood glucose levels. Marks were not awarded for describing effects of insulin and glucagon unrelated to glucose control.
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Question 13
Question
Compare and contrast rocuronium and cisatracurium
Example answer
Name | Rocuronium | Cisatracurium |
---|---|---|
Class | Aminosteroid NMB | Benzylisoquinolinium derivative (NMB) |
Indications | NMB (e.g. RSI) | NMB (i.e. RSI) |
Pharmaceutics | Clear colourless solution (50mg/5ml vials) Shelf life increased in fridge. | Clear colourless solution (10mg/5ml vials) stored at 4 degrees |
Routes of administration | IV (can also be given IM) | IV (can also be given IM)) |
Dose | 0.6 - 1.2mg/kg (RSI dose) | 0.15-0.2mg/kg (RSI) Used more commonly as an infusion (titrated to desired TOF) |
Pharmacodynamics | ||
MOA | Non depolarising NMB Inhibits the action of ACh at the NMJ by competitively binding to alpha subunit of nAChR on pre and post junctional membrane | Non-depolarising NMB Inhibits the action of ACh at the NMJ by competitively binding to alpha subunit of nAChR on pre and post junctional membrane |
Effects | NMB > paralysis | NMB > muscle paralysis |
Side effects | Histamine release: none ANS: vagolytic (inc HR) OTHER: anaphylaxis (<0.1%), pain on injection | Histamine release: none ANS: no vagolysis OTHER: anaphylaxis (very rare) |
Pharmacokinetics | ||
Onset | Onset: 45-90s Duration: ~30 mins | Onset: 1-3 minutes Duration: 30-45 minutes |
Absorption | IV only | IV only |
Distribution | VOD = 0.2 L /kg Protein binding = 10% Doesn't cross BBB | VOD = 0.15 L/kg Protein binding = 15% |
Metabolism | Minimal hepatic metabolism (<5%) | Organ independent Hoffman elimination (70-90%) > laudanosine and acrylate |
Elimination | Bile 70%, Renal 30% elimination Unchanged drug T 1/2 = 90 mins | Renal and biliary elimination (10-30%) Inactive metabolites T 1/2 - 30 mins |
Special points | Reversible with sugammadex | Not reversible with sugammadex |
Examiner comments
32% of candidates passed this question.
This question was best answered using a tabular format outlining class of drug, pharmaceutics, pharmacokinetics, reversibility and side effects. Better answers commented on the significance of the differences between the two agents and its relevance to ICU practice. Many candidates confused these muscle relaxants with each other and with depolarising muscle relaxants.
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Question 14
Question
Explain the detection and response to hypoxaemia
Example answer
Hypoxaemia
- Abnormally low concentration of oxygen in arterial blood
- Usually defined clinically as a PaO2 < 60mmhg or SaO2 < 0.9
Hypoxia
- Oxygen deficiency at the tissues which is typically, but not always, due to hypoxaemia
- Prolonged hypoxaemia may often result in hypoxia
Detection of hypoxaemia
- Stimulus
- Decreased PaO2
- Sensors
- Peripheral chemoreceptors located in the carotid body and aortic arch
- Afferents
- CN IX (carotid body receptors)
- CN X (aortic arch receptors)
- Integrator/controller
- Medullary and pontine respiratory control centres
- Includes nucleus retroambiualis, parambigualis, ambigualis, PreBotzinger and Botziner complexes
- Efferents and effectors
- Phrenic nerve (diaphragm) - predominant
- UMN nerves to the other muscles of respiration
- Effector muscles
- Diaphragm and intercostal muscles
- Accessory muscles of respiration (SCM, pectoral, scalene, pharyngeal, abdominal muscles )
Response to hypoxaemia
- Ventilatory response
- Increased minute ventilation (hyperbolic relationship with rapidly increasing MV when PaO2 <50-60)
- Cardiovascular response
- Hypoxic vasoconstriction of pulmonary circulation
- Hypoxic vasodilation of systemic circulation
- Autonomic response
- Relative increase in sympathetic tone
- Leads to tachycardia, increased CO, increased SVR
- BP stable / slight increase
- Relative increase in sympathetic tone
- Metabolic changes
- If concurrent hypoxia there will be a switch from aerobic to anaerobic metabolism
- Hypoxia inducible factors (HIF)
- With tissue hypoxia, hypoxia inducible transcription factors are no longer broken down.
- HIFs > increased erythropoiesis (increased EPO), cell differentiation and angiogenesis
Examiner comments
34% of candidates passed this question.
A logical approach to answering this question included a definition of hypoxaemia and then a
discussion of the sensors, integrators and effectors involved. It was expected that candidates
would cover the peripheral chemoreceptor response (including the respiratory, cardiovascular
and autonomic effects), time course of the ventilatory response, hypoxia-inducible factors,
vascular effects (hypoxic vasoconstriction in the pulmonary circulation and vasodilatation in the
systemic circulation) and metabolic changes (switch to anaerobic metabolism). No marks were
awarded for discussing the causes of hypoxaemia. Many candidates incorrectly stated that
hypoxaemia is detected by the central chemoreceptors.
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Question 15
Question
Outline the production / absorption (30% of marks), composition (30% of marks) and function of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) (40% of marks).
Example answer
CSF
- ECF located in the ventricles and subarachnoid space
- ~2ml/kg of CSF
- Divided evenly between the cranium and spinal column
Production
- Constantly produced
- ~550ml produced per day (~24mls/hr)
- Produced by
- Choroid plexus (70%) - located in ventricles of brain
- Capillary endothelial cells (30%)
- Produced by a combination of ultrafiltration (via fenestrated choroidal capillaries) and active secretion
- Na actively transported out. Gradient drives co-transport of HCO3 + Cl
- Glucose via facilitated diffusion, water by osmosis
Composition relative to plasma
- Similar: Na, osmolality, HCO3
- Increased: Cl, Mg, CO2
- Decreased: pretty much everything else (protein, potassium, calcium, glucose, pH)
Circulation
Circulation is driven by
Ciliary movement of ependymal cells
Respiratory oscillations and arterial pulsations
Constant production and absorption
CSF flows from
Lateral ventricles > foramen of Monro > 3rd ventricle > Sylvian aqueduct > 4th ventricle > cisterna magna (via foramen megendie and luschka) > spreads between spinal/cranial subarachnoid spaces
Reabsorption
Rate of ~24mls/hr
By the arachnoid villi
Located predominately in the dural walls of the sagittal + sigmoid sinuses
Function as one way valves, with driving pressure leading to absorption.
Functions
- Mechanical protection
- The low specific gravity of CSF > decreased effective weight of the brain (1500g > 50g)
- With the reduced weight
- Less inertia = less acceleration/deceleration forces
- Suspended > no contact with the rigid skull base
- Buffering of ICP
- CSF can be displaced / reabsorbed to offset any increase in ICP
- Stable extracellular environment
- Provides a constant, tightly controlled, ionic environment for normal neuronal activity
- Control of respiration
- The pH of CSF is important in the control of respiration (CO2 freely diffuses into CSF and can activate central chemoreceptors)
- Nutrition
- Provides a supply of oxygen, sugars, amino acids to supply the brain
Examiner comments
71% of candidates passed this question.
This question was generally well answered. Better answers noted production including an
amount, site and mechanism. Similarly, absorption included the site, the rate and factors which
affect the rate. The electrolyte and pH and how they compare to extracellular fluid should have
been included in the section on composition.
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Question 16
Question
Describe the forces that result in fluid exchange across capillary membranes
Example answer
Fluid exchange across membranes
Bulk flow of fluid across a semi-permeable membrane is a balance of Starling forces
Can be expressed using the following formula
<math display="inline">Bulk \: flow \: = \: \kappa[(P_c \; - \; P_{if}) \; - \; \delta(\pi_p \; - \pi_{if})]</math>
Where:
Kappa = membrane filtration constant
Accounts for membrane permeability and surface area
Delta = reflection constant
Takes into consideration protein leakage
Values range from 0-1
Capillary hydrostatic pressure (Pc)
Main factor determining bulk flow under physiological conditions
Normally ~35mmhg at arterial end, 15mmHg at venous end of capillary.
Determined by
The ratio of resistances between pre/post capillary arterioles
Arterial and venous blood pressure and gravity
Interstitial hydrostatic pressure(Pif)
Normally ~0mmhg (there is minimal interstitial fluid which is draining away)
Affected by anything that modifies lymphatic drainage (e.g. immobility, tourniquet)
Plasma oncotic pressure (Ï€p)
The osmotic pressure attributed to by large insoluble proteins (e.g. albumin) within plasma
Normally ~28mmHg. Does not rapidly change
Affected by plasma protein concentrations and intravascular fluid status
Interstitial oncotic pressure (Ï€if)
Osmotic pressure attributed to by small amounts of insoluble proteins which have leaked into interstitial space
Normally ~3mmHg. Does not rapidly change
Affected by membrane integrity
Using the above values at venous/arterial ends, it is demonstrated that bulk flow occurs
OUT of the vessel at arterial end
IN to the vessel at venous end
Main factor as described is the Capillary hydrostatic pressure gradient (Pc - Pif)
Examiner comments
57% of candidates passed this question.
The expected answer included a clear explanation of Starling’s forces, including an understanding of the importance of the relative difference along the length of the capillary, with approximate values and examples of factors that influence them. Some explanation of what contributed to the hydrostatic or osmotic pressure gained more marks than merely stating there was a pressure. Several candidates digressed to Fick’s law of diffusion or intracellular flow of ions which was not directly relevant to capillary flow.
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Question 17
Question
Describe ketone bodies including their synthesis and metabolism
Example answer
Ketone Bodies
- Water soluble molecules, derived from fatty acids, that contain ketone groups
- Three main compounds: acetoacetate, 3-β-Hydroxybutyrate, and acetone
- Normal plasma level is <0.6mmol/L
Ketogenesis
- Ketone bodies can only be produced in the liver
- β-oxidation of fatty acids in the liver produces acetyl-CoA
- Acetyl-CoA usually enters the citric acid cycle to produce ATP
- When large amounts of acetyl CoA are produced they condense to form acetoacetate
- Acetoacetate is then reduced in the mitochondria to 3-β-hydroxybutyrate (majority) or acetone (minority).
Regulation
- The body constantly produces small amounts of ketone bodies (even during fed states)
- When carbohydrate stores are available the main pathway for energy utilisation is glycogenolysis
- Ketogenesis is accelerated by decreased insulin levels and increased glucagon levels (e.g. in times of starvation or carbohydrate restriction). This leads to increased activity of hormone sensitive lipase and acetyl Coa Carboxlyase which drive ketogensis
- As the lack of insulin is the main driver of ketogenesis, it explains why Type 1 diabetics develop diabetic ketoacidosis
Metabolism/utilisation
- Ketone bodies can be used as an energy substrate by
- Kidney, skeletal muscle and cardiac muscle cells (under physiological conditions)
- Nervous tissue (during times of starvation)
- Process
- Ketone bodies enter mitochondria
- Ketone body reconstituted to Aceto-acetyl CoA (by SCOT)
- Cleavage of acetyl group by MAT to form Acetyl CoA
- Acetyl CoA enters the Citric acid cycle
Examiner comments
35% of candidates passed this question.
Whilst most candidates understood that ketones provided an alternative source of substrate for energy production, many lacked a basic understanding of their synthesis and metabolism Important facts included what ketone bodies are, where they were synthesised, where they were taken up and used as fuel, under what circumstances they are used and the integral role of insulin. Many candidates accurately reproduced the glycolytic and/or the TCA cycle, but this was not being examined, and did not score additional marks. Many candidates incorrectly stated that ketone production was the result of anaerobic metabolism.
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Question 18
Question
Describe the factors affecting left ventricular function
Example answer
Not 100% if this answer is exactly what they want tbh.
Factors affecting LV systolic function
- Preload
- Frank starling mechanism
- Increased preload > increased sarcomere length > increased force of LV contraction > increased SV
- Frank starling mechanism
- Afterload
- LV is afterload independent (due to compensatory mechanisms)
- Contractility
- Anrep effect
- Means of autoregulating contractility with changes in preload
- Increase in afterload > increased ESV > increased sarcomere stretch > increased force of subsequent contraction > increased SV
- Bowditch effect
- A means of compensating for decreased diastolic filling time with fast heart rates
- Increased HR > decreased time to expel intracellular calcium > accumulation > increased inotropy
- Integrity of myofilaments
- Damaged myocardial tissue > impaired LV contraction (e.g. in ischaemia/infarction)
- Coordinated depolarisation
- Suboptimal myocardial depolarisation in the LV > impaired coordination of LV contraction
- e.g. in heart block, sinus node dysfunction
- Substrate supply
- Adequate supply of ATP (derived from glucose,fat, protein) to ensure ability of LV to function as needed
- Hormones
- e.g. catecholamines --> increased inotropy/chronotropy/lusitropy
- Autonomic tone
- Increased SNS activity / decreased PSNS activity > increased chronotropy and inotropy
- Drugs
- E.g. B agonists --> increased chronotropy and inotropy
- Electrolytes
- E.g. Calcium: too little = impaired systolic function, too much = impaired diastolic function
- Anrep effect
Factors affecting LV diastolic function
- LV diastolic function is determined by it compliance
- LV systolic function
- Poor LV systolic function > high end systolic volume > impedes diastolic filling
- Heart rate
- Increased HR > shorter time in diastole > reduced compliance; filling is time dependant
- Lusitropic properties of the ventricle
- Increased by SNS tone and catecholamines
- Wall thickness
- Increased thickness = reduced compliance
- LV systolic function
Examiner comments
12% of candidates passed this question.
Candidates often misinterpreted the question and described determinants of cardiac output. The answer should have focussed on factors affecting/contributing to normal LV function - not pathological states. Some answers showed a lack of appreciation that normal left ventricular function is afterload independent, due to compensatory reflexes. Answers needed to consider intrinsic and extrinsic factors affecting LV function - the latter (e.g. SNS, PSNS, hormones, drugs) was often left out. Answers needed to consider both systolic and diastolic function. An excellent answer included physiological phenomena such as the Treppe effect, Anrep effect and baroreceptor and chemoreceptor reflexes. Mention of normal conduction and pacing as well as blood supply limited by diastole scored additional marks.
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Question 19
Question
Describe toxicity of local anaesthetic agents
Example answer
Local anaesthetic toxicity
- Typically occurs ~3mg/kg (without adrenaline) ~6-7mg/kg (with adrenaline) when used regionally
- CNS and CVS side effects are most evident
- CNS effects occurring at lower plasma drug concentrations
- CNS side effects
- Lower doses: Visual disturbances, perioral numbness, tremors
- Higher doses: Slurred speech, confusion, decreased level of consciousness
- Highest doses: Seizures, coma, apnoea
- CVS side effects
- Lower doses: Hypertension, tachycardia
- Higher doses: Hypotension, bradycardia,
- Highest doses: Cardiovascular collapse, arrhythmias
- Other effects
- Methemoglobinemia
- Allergy
Factors affecting toxicity
- Patient factors
- Acidosis: decreases protein binding > increased unbound fraction
- Increased age: decreased clearance
- Pregnancy: decreased protein levels > increased unbound fraction
- Hyperkalaemia: decreased dose required for toxicity
- Hepatic dysfunction: reduced metabolism > increased risk of toxicity
- Renal dysfunction: reduced clearance > increased risk of toxicity
- Drug factors
- Increasing dose = increased risk of toxicity
- Type of local anaesthetic
- e.g. bupivacaine has lower CC/CNS ratio than lidocaine (more likely to be cardiotoxic than CNS toxic)
- Site of administration: more vascular areas > higher risk
- Coadministration with vasoconstrictors (e.g. adrenaline) > slower absorption > reduced risk toxicity
- Drug interactions: displacement from protein binding sites by highly protein bound drugs e.g. phenytoin > increased unbound fraction > increased risk of toxicity
Management of local anaesthetic toxicity
- Alkalinise
- Decreases the unbound (active) fraction of the drug
- Give intralipid
- Increases the lipid bound fraction (decreases active unbound fraction)
Examiner comments
28% of candidates passed this question.
Most questions lacked a systematic approach to the question and specific detail. The relationship between systemic toxicity (CNS and CVS) and plasma levels should be described. Many candidates did not clearly state that CNS toxicity occurs at lower plasma levels that CVS toxicity. Factors that affect toxicity (e.g. drug factors, patient factors, interactions) needed to be elaborated with some detail. Patient factors such as age, pregnancy, acidosis, hyperkalaemia, hepatic failure were often omitted. Finally, marks were also awarded for noting methaemoglobinaemia as possible toxicity and the existence of specific therapy (intralipid).
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Question 20
Question
Describe the pharmacology of heparin highlighting important differences between unfractionated and fractionated (low molecular weight) heparin
Example answer
Name | HMWH (heparin) | LMWH (enoxaparin) |
---|---|---|
Class | Anticoagulant | Anticoagulant |
Indications | Prophylactic and therapeutic anticoagulation (e.g. AF, DVT, PE, ACS etc) | Prophylactic and therapeutic anticoagulation (e.g. AF, DVT, PE, ACS etc) |
Pharmaceutics | MW = 5,000-25,000 Da Clear solution for injection |
MW = 5,000 Daltons Clear solution for injection |
Routes of administration | IV, SC | SC (main), can also be given IV |
Dose | Prophylactic: 5,000 IU BD-TDS Therapeutic: infusion (APTT target) | Therapeutic: 1mg/kg BD or 1.5mg/kg OD Prophylactic: 20-40mg OD |
pKA | ||
Pharmacodynamics | ||
MOA | Heparin binds to antithrombin 3 > conformational change > increases affinity for inactivating thrombin (factor IIa) and Factor Xa | Enoxaparin binds to AT-3 > conformational change > increases affinity for inactivating factor Xa (and weakly factor IIa - 4x less activity) |
Effects | Anticoagulation | Anticoagulation |
Side effects | HAEM: increased risk of haemorrhage, bruising, HITTS (higher than LMWH) | HAEM: increased risk of haemorrhage, bruising, HITTS (lower than HMWH) |
Pharmacokinetics | ||
Onset | Immediate (IV), 30 mins (SC) | Peak effect 3-4 hrs post SC injection |
Absorption | PO bioavailability - 0% Variable SC absorption |
PO bioavailability - 0% >90% bioavailability post SC injection |
Distribution | VOD = 0.1L/kg Lipid solubility: low |
VOD = 4.3L Protein binding: does not bind to heparin binding proteins |
Metabolism | Reticuloendothelial system | Minimal hepatic metabolism |
Elimination | Renal elimination (very minimal) - hence preferred in renal failure T 1/2 = 1 hrs |
Renal elimination of active and inactive metabolites T 1/2 = 6-12 hours |
Special points | Reversal: protamine (1mg = 100IU) - 100% Monitoring: APTT level |
Reversal: protamine (<75% efficacy) Monitoring: Anti-Xa level |
Examiner comments
71% of candidates passed this question.
Better answers were tabulated and included sections on pharmaceutics, indications and an explanation on how the difference in molecular weight influenced pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. Knowledge of adverse effects was limited to bleeding and HITTS, often without consideration of relative risk from LMWH. Many candidates did not know the t1/2 of UFH or LMWH.
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