Background: Electrolyte disturbances are frequently observed during the acute and subacute period
after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and may potentially worsen therapeutic outcome.
This study was conducted to determine the pattern of electrolyte disturbance in the
acute and subacute phase after SAH and their effect on the long-term outcome of the
patients. Materials and Methods: Fifty-three patients were prospectively enrolled. The standards of care for all patients
were uniformly performed. The serum levels of electrolytes (sodium, potassium and
magnesium) were determined with measurements obtained on admission, 3–5 and 7–10 days
after SAH. Radiographic intensity of hemorrhage (Fisher's scale), and the clinical
grading (World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies grade) were documented in the
first visit. The outcomes were evaluated using Glasgow outcome scale at 3 months after
discharge. Results: Hyponatremia was the most common electrolyte imbalance among the patients but did
not worsen the outcome. Although less common, hypernatremia in the subacute phase
was significantly associated with poor outcome. Both hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia
were predictive of poor outcomes. Conclusions: Because electrolyte abnormalities can adversely affect the outcome, the serum levels
of electrolytes should be closely monitored with serial measurements and treated properly
in patients with aneurysmal SAH.
Key-words:
Aneurysm - electrolyte imbalance - outcome - subarachnoid hemorrhage
