Etymed
hyperkalemia
Definition
A medical condition characterized by elevated levels of potassium in the blood
Clinical context
A 65-year-old diabetic patient presents to the emergency department with weakness and palpitations. His ECG shows peaked T waves and widened QRS complexes. Laboratory results reveal a serum potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L. The patient's medication history includes lisinopril for hypertension and potassium supplements. This case illustrates the life-threatening cardiac manifestations of severe hyperkalemia.
Mnemonic
Hypertensive patients on ACE inhibitors with potassium supplements are at risk for hyperkalemia