INTRAVENOUS POTASSIUM, CALCIUM AND MAGNESIUM AND THE CORTICAL ELECTROGRAM OF THE CAT

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Abstract
The cortical electrogram and the simultaneous electrocardiogram of the cat were followed continuously during the intravenous inj. of salts of K, Ca and Mg. K and Ca produced no changes in the cortical electrogram until the development of intraventricular block or of cardiac arrest, whereupon slowing of the electrogram occurred. Mg produced transient periods of slowing before pathological changes appeared in the electrocardiogram, and then secondary slowing of frequency, similar to that following cardiac arrest due to K or Ca, appeared after the development of intraventricular block. Brain potentials persisted for at least 15 mins. after complete respiratory and cardiac failure. The authors conclude that the influence of K and Ca on the cortical electrogram is secondary to that on the electrocardiogram, whereas Mg exerts a direct influence on the central nervous system.