DEXTRAN-SYNDROME - ACUTE HYPOTENSION, NONCARDIOGENIC PULMONARY-EDEMA,ANEMIA, AND COAGULOPATHY FOLLOWING HYSTEROSCOPIC SURGERY USING 32-PERCENT DEXTRAN-70

Dextran solutions are favored distending media for man hysteroscopic p rocedures because, they are easy to administer, distribute uniformly w ithin the uterine cavity,and are relatively nontoxic. We present the c ase of a 26-year-old woman who developed hypotension, noncardiogenic p ulmonary edema, and hemorrhagic diathesis following hysteroscopic surg ery with 32% dextran 70. A medical literature review indicates that fo llowing hysteroscopic surgery in which dextran solution has been used, ''dextran syndrome'' has been diagnosed in some patients. This syndro me is characterized by acute hypotension, hypoxia, coagulopathy, and a nemia. We speculate on the pathogenesis of this condition and offer re commendations on how to evaluate and treat this rare dextran-related c omplication.