Keywords
metabolic crisis - neurocritical care - neurotrauma - acute neurological injuries
- bundle approach
Introduction
Metabolic crisis is a serious condition that can occur in patients with acute neurological
injuries, such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, and subarachnoid hemorrhage. It
refers to a state of severe metabolic disturbance in which the supply and demand of
energy substrates are not balanced. This metabolic dysfunction is best described as
a decrease in oxidative metabolism[1]
[2] with an alteration in glucose metabolism[3]
[4] and has been demonstrated in both experimental[3]
[5] and human brain injury.[6]
[7] This imbalance can lead to a cascade of detrimental effects that exacerbate the
initial neurological injury and can result in poor patient outcomes.
This critical care aspect must be recognized and treated as it can significantly affect
patient prognosis and recovery. The extent of secondary brain damage may depend on
the nature and length of the metabolic disturbance, and an extended metabolic crisis
may increase the risk of complications like infections and organ failure.[8] Improved patient outcomes and better chances of recovery are possible with effective
management.[9] Carre et al compared post-traumatic metabolic disturbances with an iceberg ([Fig. 1]).[10] All medical professionals understand what ischemia is and how to avoid or treat
ischemic events. The iceberg's submerged portion poses a real threat. The metabolic
crisis may be a sneaky manifestation of energetic post-traumatic disturbances that
are challenging to diagnose, treat, and understand.
Fig. 1 The iceberg of metabolic disturbance.
The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of metabolic crisis in neurocritical
care, including its definition, classification, and bundle of therapeutic interventions
for the acute and hyperacute stages. This review aims to provide clinicians with a
comprehensive understanding of the metabolic crisis and equip them with the knowledge
and tools to effectively manage this complex condition in their patients.
Definition of Metabolic Crisis in Neurocritical Care
Definition of Metabolic Crisis in Neurocritical Care
Explanation of Metabolic Crisis
In neurocritical care, a metabolic crisis denotes a serious disruption of the delicate
equilibrium of energy metabolism within the central nervous system (CNS). The brain
heavily depends on a consistent and sufficient supply of glucose and oxygen to meet
its high energy requirements. A metabolic crisis results when this equilibrium is
disturbed, either as a result of a decreased energy supply or an increased demand.[11]
Ischemia, which is characterized by inadequate blood flow to the brain, is one of
the main causes of metabolic crisis.[11] It may be caused by conditions like ischemic stroke, cerebral artery vasospasm,
or generalized cerebral hypoperfusion. Due to the limitation of delivery of oxygen
and glucose due to ischemia the brain cells cannot produce adenosine triphosphate
(ATP), the molecule necessary for cellular energy.[12] A decrease in ATP-dependent processes and a resulting energy deficit compromise
cellular metabolism and normal neuronal function.
Another factor that causes metabolic crisis is hypoxia, which is a condition of decreased
oxygen availability.[13] Brain cells in hypoxic environments receive insufficient oxygen, which impairs their
oxidative metabolism and lowers their ability to produce ATP.[13] The insufficient supply of ATP impairs crucial cellular processes, compromising
the integrity and functionality of neurons.
The CNS may experience a metabolic crisis as a result of seizures, especially status
epilepticus (prolonged or recurrent seizures). The demand for energy and metabolic
substrates increases noticeably during seizures due to the spike in neuronal activity.[14] Large amounts of glucose and oxygen are consumed during prolonged, excessive electrical
discharges, depleting the energy stores required for ongoing normal cellular functions.[14] Long-lasting seizures can trigger a metabolic crisis by depleting energy reserves
and upsetting the delicate balance between energy supply and demand.
A metabolic crisis in neurocritical care can also be caused by systemic metabolic
disturbances. The body's endocrine system and conditions like severe hypoglycemia,
hyperglycemia, electrolyte imbalances, acid–base disturbances, thyroid storm, and
electrolyte disorders can all affect how the brain uses its energy.[15] The energy crisis can be made worse by these systemic abnormalities, which can have
a direct impact on glucose transport, oxygenation, and cellular metabolism in the
brain.
In general, a metabolic crisis in neurocritical care refers to a variety of pathological
processes that disturb the delicate equilibrium between cerebral energy demand and
supply. Brain health and function may be significantly impacted by the resulting impairment
in cellular metabolism and neuronal function. Understanding the underlying causes
of the metabolic crisis is crucial for effective management and the implementation
of timely interventions to restore metabolic homeostasis in the CNS.
Neurological Consequences of Metabolic Crisis
Metabolic crisis poses a serious threat to the CNS's effectiveness and integrity.
The brain is extremely dependent on a steady supply of oxygen and glucose to meet
its metabolic needs. When the availability of these substrates is compromised, the
brain's pathways for energy production are upset, which leads to the accumulation
of toxic metabolites and the impairment of cellular functions. Neuronal injury, cerebral
edema,[16] oxidative stress,[17] mitochondrial dysfunction,[18] excitotoxicity,[19] and other issues that can harm brain tissue and result in neurological dysfunction
can be brought on by a lack of energy.
Importance of Early Detection and Intervention
To effectively manage the metabolic crisis in neurocritical care, early detection
and prompt intervention are essential. If a metabolic crisis is not treated, the effects
could be severe and even irreversible. It is crucial to promptly identify the symptoms
and signs of metabolic crisis, including altered mental status, seizures, focal neurological
deficits, and indications of systemic metabolic abnormalities.[20] The goals of prompt intervention are to address the underlying cause, restore metabolic
balance in the brain, and stop further neuronal damage.[21] This could entail focusing on treatments like improving cerebral perfusion, treating
underlying metabolic issues, ensuring proper oxygenation and ventilation, and administering
neuroprotective drugs. Healthcare providers can potentially lessen the severity of
brain damage and enhance patient outcomes in the acute and hyperacute stages of metabolic
syndrome by starting the proper interventions at an early stage.
Classification of Metabolic Crisis in Neurocritical Care
Classification of Metabolic Crisis in Neurocritical Care
Based on the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and metabolic disturbances present,
metabolic crises in neurocritical care can be divided into various types. For accurate
diagnosis and focused management strategies, it is crucial to comprehend these various
types. Commonly recognized metabolic crisis types include the following:
-
1. Hypoglycemic crisis: Metabolic crisis in neurocritical care refers to a state of
severe metabolic derangement that can occur in critically ill patients, particularly
those with diabetes. One significant aspect of the metabolic crisis is the hypoglycemic
crisis, which is characterized by a measurable decrease in blood glucose levels below
the normal range. This condition poses a serious threat to patients, as it can lead
to significant morbidity and mortality if left untreated.[22]
Hypoglycemia is a common and important complication in the context of intensive insulin
therapy for critically ill patients.[23] Unfortunately, it has often received less attention compared with other acute complications
such as diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar non-ketotic coma.[22] However, recent studies and emerging evidence have highlighted the grave concerns
associated with hypoglycemia, both in the short term and long term.[22]
If left untreated, hypoglycemia can result in permanent brain damage and an increased
risk of mortality.[23] Critically ill patients with diabetes who experience severe hypoglycemia are particularly
vulnerable, as they face a higher likelihood of major macrovascular events or death
within the following 12 months.[24] Alarming data from the T1D Exchange registry revealed that over 10% of adult patients
reported at least one episode of severe hypoglycemia in the past year.[24]
The ratio of systemic blood glucose level to cerebrospinal fluid glucose is a key
concept that can be attributed to the complex nature of hypoglycemia in neurocritical.
The normal ratio is close to 0.6; hence, with a blood glucose level of 100 mg/dL,
the brain glucose may be around 60 mg/dL which is a low level in any acute neurological
crisis.
Multiple factors can contribute to hypoglycemia in critically ill patients, including
underlying diseases, malnutrition, infections, variations in glucose measurement methods,
and chronic liver or kidney diseases.[23] Notably, a study conducted in the Medical Emergency Department of BIRDEM General
Hospital found that the frequency of hypoglycemia among attending patients was 2.80%.[25] Additionally, the study demonstrated a significant relationship between blood glucose
levels upon ICU admission and mortality rates.
Relative hypoglycemia (RHG) is another type of hypoglycemia that can occur in critically
ill patients with diabetes. RHG is defined as a blood glucose level more than 30%
below the estimated average based on the patient's hemoglobin A1c measurement at admission.[26] RHG is associated with increased mortality and a higher incidence of delirium among
critically ill patients with diabetes.[26]
-
2. Hyperglycemic crisis: Critically ill patients frequently experience hyperglycemia,
which has been identified as a separate risk factor for adverse outcomes, including
death, especially in those patients who have known diabetes but also in non-diabetic
patients.[27] The idea that hyperglycemia is an adaptive reaction to increased medical stress
and is regarded as a marker of illness severity rather than a specific medical condition
that needs to be managed is under attack by recent evidence.[27] The type of emergency, the presence of an infection, and the patient's sex are some
of the factors that affect the prognosis of hyperglycemic emergencies.[28] Depending on the study population, mortality rates can range from 4.8 to 23.1%.[28]
[29] In neurocritical care, aggressive treatment is used to reduce blood glucose levels
and avoid complications during hyperglycemic crises. Treatment options include intravenous
insulin, electrolytes replacement of fluids, the reversal of acidosis, and monitoring
of neurological status and vital signs.[27] Certain levels of blood glucose are related to complications with neurocritical
care conditions like blood glucose over 150 mg/dL after thrombolysis for acute stroke
can lead to hemorrhagic conversion.
-
3. Hypoxic-ischemic crisis: The term hypoxic-ischemic crisis refers to a medical emergency
caused by hypoxia, ischemia, cytotoxicity, or a combination of these mechanisms. It
can have negative consequences, such as significant personality changes and cognitive
impairments in memory, cognition, and attention.[30] The hypoxic-ischemic crisis is a major concern in neurocritical care because it
can cause brain damage and worsen neurological outcomes.
Hypoxic-ischemic brain injury refers to a group of pathophysiological and cellular
brain injuries caused by hypoxia, ischemia, cytotoxicity, or a combination of these
mechanisms.[31] Moderately severe reductions in cerebral blood flow and oxygen supply suppress brain
tissue metabolism, whereas critically severe reductions can result in irreversible
membrane disruption, cytotoxic edema, and cell death.[32]
-
4. Metabolic acidosis crisis: In critically ill patients, metabolic acidosis is a
common acid–base disorder. It occurs when the body accumulates acid, resulting in
a decrease in bicarbonate levels. In critically ill patients, severe metabolic acidosis
(pH 7.20) is associated with poor outcomes.[33] Metabolic acidosis is diagnosed using arterial blood gas analysis and other relevant
tests.[33] The physicochemical approach is used in critically ill patients to quantify complicated
metabolic acidosis.[34] Serum pH, HCO3, lactate levels, and strong ion gap monitoring may have prognostic and therapeutic
implications.[33]
-
5. Electrolyte imbalance crisis: Electrolytes are essential in neurocritical care
as they maintain fluid balance, nerve conduction, and muscle contraction.[35] Sodium and potassium levels are particularly important as changes in their levels
can disrupt the delicate balance necessary for healthy cellular functions. Hyponatremia
can cause cellular swelling, impairing cellular function and having serious consequences
for vital organs such as the brain.[36]
[37] Hypernatremia can cause dehydration and disrupt normal cellular functions.[36] Both hypokalemia and hyperkalemia can negatively impact cellular processes essential
for neurological function.[35] Potassium is necessary for nerve signal transmission and muscle contractions as
it maintains the electrical potential across cell membranes.[35] Electrolyte imbalances can also interfere with energy production within cells, which
is dependent on several metabolic processes influenced by electrolyte concentrations.
Disruptions in these concentrations can impair energy production efficiency, affecting
overall cellular function and potentially having systemic consequences.[35] Recognizing and correcting electrolyte imbalances is therefore critical in neurocritical
care.[38]
Subarachnoid hemorrhage is a typical example where initial neurocritical care management
is about securing the ruptured aneurysms, control of intracranial pressure (ICP),
and systemic impact followed by cerebral vasospasm crisis. This crisis is a true metabolic
crisis where smooth muscles of cerebral blood vessels spasm down due to free blood
inside the subarachnoid space. In normal conditions, the movement of potassium into
smooth muscles via ATP helps with the proper tone of the muscle. This process can
be hindered if there is any hypocarbia like hyperventilation for high ICP ([Figs. 2] and [3]).[39]
[40]
[41] Later with free blood and breakdown products, this shift is reduced, leading to
less availability of intracellular potassium, hence vasoconstriction.
Fig. 2 Relationship of potassium–ATP on brain blood vessels and impact of hypocarbia.
Fig. 3 Presence of free blood after subarachnoid hemorrhage and impact on cerebral vasospasm
metabolic crisis.[39]
[40]
[41]
Bundle of Therapeutic Interventions for Acute and Hyperacute Stages
Bundle of Therapeutic Interventions for Acute and Hyperacute Stages
Importance of a Bundle Approach
The bundle approach is a structured set of evidence-based interventions that are implemented
as a cohesive unit to improve patient outcomes.[42] This approach is especially important in the acute and hyperacute stages of metabolic
crisis when prompt and coordinated interventions are critical for preventing further
neurological damage and improving patient prognosis. The bundle approach has gained
widespread acceptance and importance in the management of metabolic crises in neurocritical
care.[43]
[44]
Bundling has been shown in studies to improve patient outcomes in a variety of clinical
settings, including critical care.[45]
[46] One study, for example, found that using a sepsis bundle was associated with a significant
reduction in mortality among patients suffering from severe sepsis or septic shock.[47] Another study discovered that using a ventilator bundle was linked to a significant
decrease in ventilator-associated pneumonia rates.[46] Bundles can improve patient outcomes, reduce variability in practice, and promote
teamwork and communication among healthcare providers by providing a standardized
and coordinated approach to patient care.
Components of the Bundle
The bundle of therapeutic interventions for acute and hyperacute stages of neurocritical
care metabolic crisis includes both pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies,
as well as careful monitoring and assessment.
Pharmacological Interventions
Pharmacological interventions are critical in the management of metabolic crises in
neurocritical care. These interventions include the administration of medications
to address the underlying metabolic disturbance and mitigate its negative effects
on the brain. Depending on the specific metabolic abnormality, various medications
can be used.
Hyperglycemia is a common metabolic disorder in neurocritical care, and glucose-lowering
agents like insulin are commonly used to keep blood sugar levels under control. Insulin
therapy helps to normalize glucose metabolism and lower the risk of secondary hyperglycemia
complications such as cerebral edema and impaired cerebral autoregulation.[48]
Seizures frequently accompany metabolic crises, and antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are
administered to control and prevent seizure activity. AEDs, such as phenytoin, levetiracetam,
or valproate, can effectively suppress epileptic activity and minimize the risk of
further neuronal injury.[49] The choice of AED depends on factors such as the type of seizure, patient characteristics,
and potential drug interactions.[49]
Metabolic acidosis is another critical component of metabolic crisis, and sodium bicarbonate
may be used to correct acid–base imbalances.[50] Sodium bicarbonate acts as a buffer, neutralizing excess acid and restoring the
body's pH balance.[50] By reversing acidosis, sodium bicarbonate helps maintain cerebral perfusion and
neuronal function.[50]
It is important to emphasize that the selection and dosage of pharmacological agents
should be individualized based on the patient's specific condition. Careful clinical
evaluation and continuous monitoring of biochemical markers, such as blood glucose
levels, electrolyte concentrations, and arterial blood gases, are essential for assessing
the effectiveness of pharmacological interventions and making necessary adjustments
([Table 1]).[51]
[52]
[53]
[54]
[55]
[56]
[57]
Table 1
Commonly used pharmacological interventions in the management of the metabolic crisis
in neurocritical care
Intervention
|
Mechanism of action
|
Indication
|
Glucose
|
Provides energy substrate for brain metabolism
|
Hypoglycemia[51]
|
Insulin
|
Promotes glucose uptake and utilization in tissues
|
Hyperglycemia[48]
|
Sodium bicarbonate
|
Corrects metabolic acidosis and restores pH balance
|
Metabolic acidosis[52]
|
Thiamine
|
Essential coenzyme in glucose metabolism
|
Suspected or confirmed thiamine deficiency[53]
|
Magnesium sulfate
|
Regulates neuronal excitability and energy metabolism
|
Hypomagnesemia[54]
|
Lorazepam or midazolam
|
Controls seizures and reduces cerebral metabolic demand
|
Seizures[55]
|
Mannitol or hypertonic saline
|
Reduces cerebral edema and intracranial pressure
|
Cerebral edema or increased intracranial pressure[56]
|
Target temperature management
|
Reduces metabolic demand
Reduces neuronal injury with fever
|
Glial and neuron stability[57]
|
Non-pharmacological Interventions
A comprehensive bundle of therapeutic interventions is critical for optimizing patient
outcomes during the acute and hyperacute stages of metabolic crisis in neurocritical
care. Non-pharmacological interventions, in addition to pharmacotherapy, play an important
role in addressing metabolic disturbances and promoting overall patient well-being.
Optimizing oxygenation is another critical aspect of non-pharmacological interventions
in neurocritical care during the acute and hyperacute stages of metabolic crisis,[58] ventilation,[59] and perfusion.[60] It is critical to ensure adequate cerebral oxygen delivery and maintain cerebral
perfusion by using supplemental oxygen, mechanical ventilation, and vasopressor agents
to support hemodynamic stability. These interventions help to prevent secondary brain
injury and maintain neuronal viability.
Temperature control is another important non-pharmacological intervention in neurocritical
care during the acute and hyperacute stages of metabolic crisis.[61] To reduce the risk of exacerbating brain injury, it is critical to maintain optimal
body temperature within a narrow therapeutic range.[61] Healthcare professionals can reduce metabolic demands, inflammation, and the development
of cerebral edema by carefully managing body temperature through active cooling or
warming techniques.
Monitoring and Assessment
Monitoring and assessment are critical components of the bundle of metabolic crisis
therapeutic interventions in neurocritical care. Monitoring vital signs such as heart
rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and body temperature regularly is critical
for detecting any deterioration in the patient's condition early. Frequent laboratory
assessments, such as blood glucose, electrolyte levels, arterial blood gases, and
lactate, provide valuable insights into the metabolic milieu and help guide treatment
adjustments.
Continuous neurologic assessment, which includes monitoring of consciousness level,
motor function, and pupillary responses, aids in assessing response to therapy and
identifying any new neurological deficits. Despite the risks of infection and brain
tissue damage associated with the surgical placement of a catheter or pressure transducer
into the cerebrospinal fluid or brain tissue compartments, invasive ICP monitoring
remains a cornerstone of modern neurocritical care.[62] Critical care ultrasound is a first-line tool in neurocritical care because these
clinical situations—hemodynamic instability, acute respiratory failure, and many others—frequently
accompany neurologic injury and are common problems for neurointensivists.[63]
Sedation is widely used in intensive care units. It has the advantage of lowering
cerebral energy demands, but it also makes accurate neurologic assessment impossible.
As a result, sedation is interrupted intermittently for a neurologic assessment, known
as a neurologic wake-up test. This wake-up test, after neuronal stability is achieved,
is regarded as the gold standard in the ongoing evaluation of brain-injured patients
under sedation.[64]
[65]
Implementation and Monitoring of the Bundle
A multidisciplinary team approach is required for the successful implementation and
monitoring of a bundle of therapeutic interventions for metabolic crises in neurocritical
care. Collaboration among neurointensivists, critical care nurses, pharmacists, consultants,
and other healthcare professionals is critical to ensure that the bundle components
are performed smoothly. Clear protocols, guidelines, and checklists promote standardized
care and compliance with bundle interventions. To monitor the compliance and effectiveness
of the bundle approach, regular auditing and quality improvement initiatives are required.
Monitoring key performance indicators, tracking patient outcomes, and identifying
areas for improvement can drive the refinement and optimization of the bundle over
time, improving patient care and outcomes even further.[64]
Conclusion
The management of metabolic crises in neurocritical care requires prompt recognition
and intervention. The bundle approach, which includes pharmacological and non-pharmacological
interventions, has emerged as a valuable strategy to optimize patient outcomes. Successful
implementation and monitoring of the bundle require a multidisciplinary team approach,
clear protocols, guidelines, and checklists, as well as regular auditing and quality
improvement initiatives. Early detection and intervention are crucial in the management
of metabolic crises, and regular monitoring of vital signs, laboratory values, and
neurologic assessments can facilitate the early identification of metabolic disturbances.
Future research directions include developing more precise and reliable biomarkers
to detect and monitor metabolic disturbances in real time, investigating the impact
of individualized treatment approaches within the bundle, and evaluating the long-term
neurologic and functional outcomes of patients who have experienced metabolic crises.
Additionally, various monitoring modalities provide unique and pertinent information
about the neurologic function, but their role in improving patient outcomes and guiding
treatment plans has not been fully explored.