The humble electrocardiogram.
Many patients with potentially life-threatening cardiac conditions presenting with transient loss of consciousness are referred first to neurology clinics. Therefore, neurologists must remain competent to interpret electrocardiograms (ECGs) and in particular be able to identify those rare conditions that predict sudden cardiac death. A 12-lead ECG is cheap and readily available, and can give essential diagnostic information. Here the authors review abnormalities in, and indications for, the ECG in neurological practice.
Marsh
Eleanor
E
Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK.
O'Callaghan
Peter
P
Smith
Philip
P
D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000009:adverse effects; D001145:Arrhythmias, Cardiac / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D001927:Brain Diseases / Q000150:complications; D004562:Electrocardiography; D006321:Heart / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D009422:Nervous System Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D009462:Neurology / Q000379:methods*; D010672:Phenytoin / Q000009:adverse effects; D014474:Unconsciousness / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D014665:Vasodilator Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D014700:Verapamil / Q000009:adverse effects
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D014665:Vasodilator Agents; D010672:Phenytoin; D014700:Verapamil