Changes in cerebral scattering and hemodynamics associated with acute mountain sickness
Abstract
Rapid ascent to high altitude can lead to acute mountain sickness (AMS). A cerebral etiology is hypothesized for AMS, including edema and vascular changes, both of which are theoretically detectable by radio‐frequency near‐infrared spectroscopy. To induce a range of AMS symptoms, 13 subjects were exposed to either 8 h of low altitude (300m), high altitude (4400m) or normobaric hypoxia (PO2=91 mmHg). Baseline tissue scattering (μs’), oxy‐/deoxy‐/total‐hemoglobin concentrations, and AMS symptoms (Environmental Symptoms Questionnaire) were collected during exposure. Resting μs’ at 690, 790, and 830nm was lower at times when subjects had AMS (AMS‐C score ≥0.7; p<0.05), suggesting the presence of cerebral edema when subjects had AMS. Oxy‐, deoxy‐and total‐Hb concentrations were also lower when subjects had AMS (p<0.05). The hemoglobin results suggest reduced cerebral perfusion associated with the development of AMS. We hypothesize these cerebral effects are directly related to the as yet unknown mechanism underlying AMS. Supported by DOD Defense Medical Research and Development Program, award number W81XWH1020199. Authors’ views, not official Army or DoD policy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2013
- Source ID
- 10.1096/fasebj.27.1_supplement.1203.9
Entities
People
- Dana M. Dipasquale
- Gary E. Strangman
- Stephen R. Muza
- Zhi Li
Organizations
- Harvard Medical School
- Massachusetts General Hospital
- United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine
- United States Department of Defense