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A Magnetic Resonance Imaging Protocol for Stroke Onset Time Estimation in Permanent Cerebral Ischemia
Published on: September 16, 2017
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Rapidly changing tachyarrhythmia in acute stroke.
Atabak Najafi1, Mojtaba Mojtahedzadeh2, Arezoo Ahmadi1
1Department of Anesthesiology & Critical care of Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.
Basic and Clinical Neuroscience
|October 23, 2014
Summary
Acute ischemic stroke can trigger various cardiac arrhythmias, even without underlying heart conditions. These supraventricular arrhythmias may appear transiently, highlighting a crucial link between neurological and cardiac events.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- A 56-year-old female presented with acute ischemic stroke.
- No history of structural heart disease or prior comorbid illnesses was noted.
Observation:
- The patient experienced sudden onset neurological deficits including lethargy, right hemiplegia, and global aphasia.
- Initial presentation included hypotension and bradycardia, managed with dopamine.
- Electrocardiographic monitoring revealed rapidly changing supraventricular tachyarrhythmias (sinus tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter).
Findings:
- The ischemic stroke was confirmed by brain CT showing a left temporoparietal infarct.
- Cardiac arrhythmias were transient, resolving spontaneously within 48 hours.
- Laboratory tests and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) were unremarkable.
Implications:
- Stroke can precipitate a wide spectrum of cardiac arrhythmias.
- These arrhythmias may be intermittent and require vigilant monitoring.
- Understanding this association is critical for comprehensive stroke patient management.
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