Related Experiment Videos
[Subarachnoid hemorrhage and the heart]
P P Martorano1, G Bini, L Tanara
1Istituto delle Emergenze Medico-Chirurgiche, Università degli Studi, Ancona.
Minerva Anestesiologica
|October 17, 1998
Summary
Electrocardiographic abnormalities are common in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), often appearing within 48 hours. While usually transient, cardiac monitoring is vital for managing potential severe complications.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Critical Care Medicine
Context:
- Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is frequently associated with cardiac complications.
- Electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities are reported in 2-91% of SAH patients.
- These changes can manifest within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Purpose:
- To review the spectrum and significance of ECG abnormalities in subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- To discuss potential mechanisms underlying these cardiac changes.
- To emphasize the importance of cardiac monitoring in SAH patients.
Summary:
- Common ECG findings include T wave inversion, ST elevation/depression, and various arrhythmias.
- While often benign and transient, severe SAH can lead to ventricular asynergy, vasospasm, or necrosis.
- Arrhythmias may result from autonomic dysregulation or direct cerebral damage.
Impact:
- Highlights the need for vigilant ECG monitoring in SAH patients.
- Suggests ECG changes may serve as indirect indicators of neurological severity.
- Underscores the potential link between SAH and cardiac morbidity/mortality, though further research is needed.