Hypoxia fulminans (lat. h. fulminans) is an acute disorder of cerebral circulation, characterized by the sudden development of focal neurological symptoms against the background of arterial hypotension.
The reasons for the development of fulminant hypoxia are varied, but most often it is thromboembolism of the cerebral arteries, less often - their spasm or thrombosis. Clinically, the disease is manifested by sudden loss of consciousness, convulsions, and focal neurological disorders.
Diagnosis is based on assessment of the neurological status, CT/MRI data of the brain, and ultrasound examination of the vessels of the head and neck. Treatment is aimed at restoring cerebral blood flow, relieving cerebral edema, and preventing recurrent thromboembolism.
The prognosis for fulminant hypoxia is generally serious, mortality reaches 20-50%. Unfavorable prognosis factors include advanced age, severity of neurological symptoms, and the extent of brain damage according to neuroimaging. With a favorable course, complete restoration of neurological functions is possible.