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Paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity: An entity to keep in mind
D A Godoy1, P Panhke2, P D Guerrero Suarez3
1Unidad de Cuidados Neurointensivos, Sanatorio Pasteur, Catamarca, Argentina; Unidad de Terapia Intensiva, Hospital San Juan Bautista, Catamarca, Argentina.
Medicina Intensiva
|December 20, 2017
Summary
Paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity (PSH) is a serious neurological condition after brain injury. Early recognition and treatment are crucial for better patient outcomes in managing this sympathetic nervous system disorder.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurocritical Care
Background:
- Paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity (PSH) is a critical neurological condition.
- It arises secondary to acute acquired brain injuries.
- PSH presents with cyclic exacerbations of sympathetic discharge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the characteristics of PSH.
- To discuss diagnostic challenges and current understanding of PSH.
- To highlight the importance of timely management.
Main Methods:
- Clinical observation and case reviews.
- Analysis of diagnostic criteria and physiopathological models.
- Review of therapeutic strategies for PSH.
Main Results:
- PSH diagnosis relies on clinical findings; validated criteria are lacking.
- The excitation-inhibition model best explains PSH.
- Early recognition and intervention are vital.
Conclusions:
- PSH is a life-threatening neurological emergency requiring prompt management.
- Effective treatment involves preventing and aborting sympathetic crises.
- Delayed diagnosis correlates with poorer patient outcomes.
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