| Description: |
Objective Myocardial infarctions (MI) often result in irreversible muscle damage to the heart and difficulty returning to daily activities. While the physical consequences of acute cardiac events are well documented in the medical literature (Lesperance et al., 1996), there is less research identifying the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral consequences of MI (Brink et al., 2008) particularly when complicated by anoxia and unresponsiveness. Method We present a case study of a 54-year-old right-handed male with 12 years of education referred for neuropsychological assessment pursuant to mental status changes following a MI with an estimated 25–30 minutes of unresponsiveness and subsequent diagnosis of anoxic encephalopathy, supported by neuroimaging, which is also positive for a 4 mm pituitary tumor. Results Neuropsychological assessment revealed difficulties with cognitive efficiency, sequencing, language production, phonemic fluency, and memory. Performance was also inconsistent with age- and education-weighted norms, and therefore did not reflect a normal aging profile. An objective psychological inventory (PAI) revealed negative self-evaluation, a focus on health matters, acute stress, and substance concerns. Additionally, an endorsement of social isolation, discomfort in social interactions, and a readiness to express anger verbally was indicated. Findings supported diagnosis of cognitive impairment associated with anoxic brain injury from above noted MI. Conclusion This case provides an example of the neuropsychological consequences of anoxic encephalopathy from MI on cognitive, emotional and behavioral functioning. It also supports the need for awareness of bodily health within the context of overall cognitive health. It emphasizes the benefits of integrating physiological and neurocognitive symptoms when conceptualizing patients with cardiac arrest. |