Commotio cordis

Commotio cordis (pronounced: /kəˈmoʊʃiːoʊ ˈkɔːrdɪs/) is a medical term that refers to a potentially fatal disruption of heart rhythm that occurs as a result of a blow to the area directly over the heart (the precordial region), at a critical time during the cycle of a heart beat causing cardiac arrest.

Etymology

The term "commotio cordis" is derived from Latin, where "commotio" means "disturbance" and "cordis" means "of the heart".

Causes

Commotio cordis is most often caused by a blunt, non-penetrating blow to the chest. The most common cause is a blow from a ball, but it can also result from a punch or other impacts. The risk of commotio cordis is especially high in sports such as baseball, softball, lacrosse, and hockey.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of commotio cordis is sudden cardiac arrest. Other symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, and loss of consciousness.

Treatment

Immediate treatment for commotio cordis is critical and includes CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). If treated quickly, the condition is potentially reversible.

Prevention

Prevention strategies include the use of protective chest gear in sports and awareness of the risks and signs of commotio cordis.

Related Terms

• Cardiac arrest
• CPR
• Automated external defibrillator
• Precordial region

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Commotio cordis
• Wikipedia's article - Commotio cordis

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