A rare case of QTc interval prolongation after a cerebellar infarct: A case report

Tóm tắt

Introduction: Significant electrocardiographic (ECG) findings are frequently observed in ischemic stroke, and they are noticed gradually by clinicians. The association between heart-rate corrected QT (QTc) interval and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality is well established. Little is known, about the connection between this simple electrocardiographic (ECG) marker and stroke especially on the cerebellar area.  

Case: A 68-year-old female presented to the emergency department with sudden onset rotatory dizziness accompanied with episodes of non – projectile vomiting and transient loss of consciousness. Neurologic Examination showed; shallow right nasolabial fold and nystagmus.  Investigation revealed the presence of Acute Ischemic Infarct at the Right Inferior Cerebellar Region and Right Side of the Vermis with Mass Effect. Over the next few days of confinement electrocardiogram showed prolongation of QTc and multifocal premature ventricular complexes. Medications, electrolyte imbalance, thyroid disease, and structural heart disease were ruled out as the cause of arrhythmia. After 2 weeks of hospitalization the patient was stable, no recurrence of arrhythmia and no new neurologic deficit. She was maintained on stroke regimen and was subsequently discharged improved. 

Conclusion: This is the first reported case of QTc prolongation after a cerebellar infarct. Patients with acute ischemic stroke may have prolonged QTc interval and has a higher incidence of electrocardiographic abnormalities. Measurement of QTc may provide a significant information in morbidity and mortality of stroke patients