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Updated: Jun 22, 2026

Cardiac Response to β-Adrenergic Stimulation Determined by Pressure-Volume Loop Analysis
Published on: May 19, 2021
Piloerection: a side effect of intravenous administration of dobutamine
1Departamento de Ecocardiografia, Hospital Italiano Umberto I, Presidente Giró 2540, Montevideo, Uruguay. invi@montevideo.com.uy
Background:
When a dobutamine stress echocardiogram is performed, piloerection is frequently found in the scalp area.
Objective:
The aim of the present study was to establish the incidence of this phenomenon and its association with other clinical findings.
Methods:
A total of 218 consecutive patients that underwent dobutamine stress echocardiography in our department were included in the study.
Results:
Piloerection was present in 42.2% of the sample. No correlations could be established between piloerection and gender, result of the stress test or other side effects. A statistically significant correlation was established with the age of the patients: piloerection was present in 73% of patients aged 50 years or younger. It appears most often with a dobutamine dose of 10 microg/kg/min.
Conclusion:
Piloerection is a frequent side effect of dobutamine infusion, particularly in patients aged 50 or less; it usually precedes the increase in heart rate caused by dobutamine; therefore, it is an early and clear indication that the intravenous set is working properly. Also, the previous warning of its possible appearance may contribute to the patient's well-being.
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