[ECG changes in patients with stroke]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Neurology
• Clinical Electrocardiography

Background:

• Non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) is a critical cardiac condition.
• Stroke, particularly due to carotid artery thrombosis, poses significant health risks.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) changes are vital diagnostic tools in cardiovascular and neurological emergencies.

Observation:

• A male patient presented with NSTEMI, characterized by deep negative T waves in precordial leads.
• The patient had a recent history of stroke secondary to left carotid artery thrombosis.
• Echocardiogram revealed normal left ventricular contractility, and troponin I levels were within normal limits.

Findings:

• Coronary angiography excluded significant coronary artery stenosis as the cause of NSTEMI.
• The ECG findings in this NSTEMI case, in the context of a recent stroke, warrant further investigation.
• A review of existing literature on ECG changes in stroke patients is presented.

Implications:

• This case underscores the complex interplay between cerebrovascular events (stroke) and cardiac manifestations (NSTEMI).
• It emphasizes the importance of considering cardiac ischemia in stroke patients, even with atypical presentations.
• Further research into ECG patterns associated with stroke could improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.