Interaction between the heart and the brain in transient global amnesia

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Neurology

Background:

• Transient global amnesia (TGA) is a neurological condition characterized by temporary memory loss.
• The potential for concomitant cardiac injury in TGA patients requires thorough investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence of cardiac injury in patients presenting with isolated TGA.
• To assess clinical symptoms, cardiac biomarkers, and electrocardiogram (ECG) findings in TGA patients.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective observational study of 202 consecutive TGA patients.
• Analysis of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTNI) levels, ECG findings, and clinical data.
• Literature review on cardiac involvement in TGA.

Main Results:

• 8.4% of TGA patients had elevated hs-cTNI levels.
• ECG abnormalities included QTc prolongation (6.7%) and T-wave inversion (6.1%).
• Elevated hs-cTNI was associated with a history of coronary heart disease and shorter TGA duration.

Conclusions:

• Cardiac involvement, including elevated hs-cTNI, can occur in TGA patients.
• While in-hospital outcomes are generally favorable, careful cardiac evaluation is crucial.
• Further research is needed to develop diagnostic algorithms for cardiac injury in TGA.