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Cardiac alterations following an electric shock

Gabriela LALIGA BLANCO and Sonia REDONDO DE PEDRO

Post-electric shock cardiothoracic symptoms in a 25-year-old female with normal cardiac evaluation.A 25-year-old woman, with no significant medical history, presented to Primary Healthcare following an occupational electric shock two days prior. Since the incident, she has experienced chest oppression, asthenia and bradykinesia. On physical examination, cardiopulmonary auscultation was rhythmic without murmurs or additional sounds; transient tachycardia resolving within seconds. No entry or exit point of the electrical current were observed. An electrocardiogram was performed showing sinus rhythm at 80 bpm, narrow QRS, no conduction abnormalities and no repolarization changes. Three days later, chest pain persisted and aphonia appeared without odynophagia. Physical examination revealed normal cardiopulmonary auscultation, normal oropharynx and intense tenderness on palpation over the sternum and ribs. A Cardiology e-consultation was requested and chest and sternum X – rays were performed with no acute pathological findings. During Cardiology consultations, a new ECG showed sinus rhythm at 67 bpm, PR interval 114 ms without clinical relevance, and a transthoracic Doppler echocardiogram revealed no abnormalities.Electrical shocks can produce cardiovascular, neurological and musculoskeletal symptoms of varying severity. In this case, the patient experienced chest pain, asthenia, bradykinesia and aphonia following a low-voltage electrical shock, without detectable electrical or structural changes. The case highlights the usefulness of e-consultations for rapid cardiology assessment and follow-up in Primary Healthcare.This case demonstrates the importance of comprehensive evaluation and follow-up after electrical injuries, even in the absence of abnormal findings in tests performed in Primary Healthcare. Persistent symptoms may require interdisciplinary assessment, and the role of the Primary Care physician is essential for monitoring and coordinating with specialists.Electrical injuries present a wide spectrum of clinical and electrical manifestations, ranging from asymptomatic to life-threatening. In this patient, chest pressure and bradykinesia were not explained by electrical or structural alterations. This confirms that not all symptoms following an electric shock are of cardiological origin, highlighting the importance of thorough patient evaluation.Comprehensive Primary Healthcare, combined with specialist collaboration via e-consultations, ensures proper management of patients after electrical injuries. Even when tests are normal, symptoms monitoring and follow-up are essential for patient reassurance and preventing complications.