Multiple extremity amputations in hypotensive patients treated with dopamine
F. L. Golbranson, L. Lurie, R. M. Vance and R. F. Vandell
Dopamine hydrochloride has been established as effective in the treatment
of hypotension and shock in patients with adquate blood volume. The
physiological response is dose related. Administration of more than 10
microgram/kg/min results in alpha-receptor stimulation and
vasoconstriction, and peripheral extremity ischemia has been reported. Four
patients treated with dopamine subsequently had the development of
peripheral ischemia and gangrene, resulting in the need for multiple
extremity amputations. These reactions represent a major complication of
treatment.
