[The electrocardiogram and hypothermia. Apropos of a case]

Hypothermia induces characteristic electrocardiographic changes (Osborn wave). They have been observed in the animal and in man, both in accidental hypothermia and in hypothermia induced during cardiac surgery. A case of accidental hypothermia, observed in an elderly woman found unconscious in her home, illustrates all of the electrocardiographic changes that have been described. This case report is accompanied by a brief review of the literature. The recognition of these clinical signs should enable the diagnosis of hypothermia to be made at an early stage and appropriate treatment instituted, as this is a condition which is generally associated with a high mortality rate.