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Updated: May 4, 2026

Echocardiographic Assessment Using Subxiphoid-Only Examination for Hypotensive Patients
Published on: April 18, 2025
Symptomatic hypotonic hyponatremia presenting at high altitude
Susanne J Spano1, Zacharia Reagle2, Timothy Evans2
1Department of Emergency Medicine, UCSF Fresno Medical Education Program, Fresno, CA (Dr Spano).
Abstract:
We present a case of altered mental status and seizure that occurred at an altitude known to cause high altitude-related illnesses. Based on the presenting symptoms, the patient was initially transferred to the hospital with a presumptive diagnosis of high altitude cerebral edema. On review of imaging and laboratory data, she was found to be experiencing symptomatic hypotonic hyponatremia. This case presented an interesting diagnostic challenge and underscores the importance of maintaining a broad differential diagnosis when evaluating a patient with altered mental status from an alpine setting.
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