Report of Two Cases Treated With Isoproterenol and Heparin

Abstract

SYNOPSISTwo cases of fulminant meningococcal septicaemia with clinical Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome were treated with isoproterenol and heparin in addition to antibiotics and corticosteroids. The rapid reversion of shock and the subsequent recovery of the patients were probably attributable in major part to the use of isoproterenol (isoprenaline) and perhaps of heparin. The mechanism of this effect is briefly discussed.Received F e b r u a r y 23, 1966. 1. Medical Registrar.Fellow in Cardiology, Adolph Dasser I n s t i t u t e of Cardiology, a n d Honorary Relieving Assistant Physician.