Double Trouble of Severe Hyperkalemia: Syncope and No Significant ECG Changes

Abstract

Potassium is an important ion capable to maintain intra-extracellular electric gradient. Hyperkalemia is a common and potential life-threatening electrolyte disorder in patients presenting to the emergency setting. Variations in the intra-extracellular ionic flow may alter cells functions, skeletal and smooth muscle contractility and electric activity of myocardial cells. Hyperkalemia can be difficult to diagnose clinically because symptoms may be vague. Patients may be asymptomatic or report non-specific symptoms such as generalized fatigue, weakness, paralysis or palpitations. Syncope is unusual neurological manifestation. An increase in serum potassium levels is followed by progressively severe electrophysiological derangements in cardiac impulse generation and conduction, which are reflected in the electrocardiogram (ECG).