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Updated: Jun 22, 2026

Method for Recording Broadband High Resolution Emission Spectra of Laboratory Lightning Arcs
Published on: August 27, 2019
[Hit by lightning out of the blue]
H Duppel1, M Löbermann, E C Reisinger
1Abteilung für Tropenmedizin und Infektionskrankheiten, Klinik für Innere Medizin, Universität Rostock, Ernst-Heydemann-Strasse 6, Rostock.
History And Clinical Findings:
A group of six hikers were hit by lightning out of the blue sky. The biggest harm was done to a 29-year-old man (size: 190 cm) while walking along a high spruce. He experienced a seizure with consecutive sinus tachycardia and hypertensive dysregulation. One year later he still complained about reduced physical strength. The other five hikers had less severe injuries.
Investigations:
Burns were detectable in five of six patients. Elevated creatine kinase and myoglobin were indicative for myolysis. Renal parameters were normal.
Diagnosis, Therapy And Course:
All patients were treated with intravenous fluid and electrolyte substitution during transport to hospital. Two patients were additionally treated with metroprolol.
Conclusion:
Cardiac arrhythmias, usually tachycardia, myolysis, and seizures require early treatment with beta blockers, sufficient fluid supply, and antiepileptics. In patients with cardiac arrest after a lightning injury immediate cardiac resuscitation is crucial.
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