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Symptomatic sinus bradycardia during the recovery phase of high-altitude pulmonary edema: a case report

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This case report describes a 28-year-old healthy male who developed high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) after a rapid ascent. While his condition improved with standard therapy (including corticosteroids, diuretics, and supplemental oxygen), he developed symptomatic sinus bradycardia (heart rate nadir: 37 bpm) 2 days after discontinuation of these medications. The bradycardia resolved with intravenous potassium supplementation and fluid resuscitation, and his heart rate recovered to 59 bpm. This case highlights that a rebound in vagal tone and steroid withdrawal may contribute to severe bradycardia during the HAPE recovery phase, warranting heightened clinical vigilance.

Source: Frontiers in Medicine

DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2026.1754071

Authors: Jiale Xie, Weiping Li, Jia Luan, Zhibiao Cai, Haijun Miao

Institution: Chinese People's Liberation Army

Language: English

Topic: High Altitude and Hypoxia

Subfield: Genetics

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801