Bradycardia

Definition

Bradycardia is a condition characterized by an abnormally slow heart rate, typically below 60 beats per minute in adults. It can be a sign of underlying issues, including nervous system infections.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bradycardia may result from bacterial infections that affect the autonomic nervous system, such as Lyme disease and diphtheria.
2. Infections causing inflammation of the brain or spinal cord (e.g., meningitis) can lead to bradycardia due to increased intracranial pressure affecting the vagus nerve.
3. Certain neurotoxins produced by bacteria like Clostridium botulinum can interfere with neurological signals and lead to bradycardia.
4. Endocarditis, an infection of the heart's inner lining, can lead to complications in cardiac function including bradycardia.
5. Diagnosis of bradycardia often involves identifying underlying infections through blood tests and imaging studies.

Review Questions

• How can meningitis contribute to the development of bradycardia?
• Which bacterial diseases are known to produce neurotoxins that may cause bradycardia?
• What diagnostic methods are used to identify the underlying causes of bradycardia associated with nervous system infections?

Related terms

Meningitis:

Inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, often due to infection.

Endocarditis:

An infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves.

Neurotoxin: A poison that acts on the nervous system, potentially disrupting nerve function and leading to conditions such as bradycardia.