Two cases of shoshin beri beri with hemodynamic and plasma catecholamine data.

Two fulminant forms of beri beri ("shoshin beri beri") have been the subject of detailed study; circulating catecholamines reached very high levels. The evolution of hemodynamic parameters after treatment with thiamin is described. One case died and the histological lesions corresponded to those of "chronic congestive beri beri".