[ECG changes in patients with stroke]
Zofia Grabczewska1, Iwona Swiatkiewicz, Jacek Kubica
1Katedra i Klinika Kardiologii i Chorób Wewnetrznych, Szpital Uniwersytecki im. dr. A. Jurasza, ul. Skłodowskiej-Curie 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz. z.grabczewska@cm.umk.pl
Insights
This case study details a patient with non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and stroke. Despite normal troponin levels and no coronary stenosis, ECG changes suggested cardiac injury, highlighting the link between stroke and cardiac events.
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.
Abstract:
We present a case of a male patient who was admitted to the cardiology department with a diagnosis of NSTEMI (deep negative T waves in all precordial leads). Two weeks earlier he was hospitalised because of a stroke caused by thrombosis of the left carotid artery. He had no angina. An ECHO showed a normal myocardial contractility of the left ventricle. The concentration of troponin I was also normal. No coronary artery stenosis was revealed in coronary angiography. We present a review of studies devoted to ECG changes in patients with stroke.
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