Arrhythmias, Microalbuminuria and Corticosteroids
Arrhythmias, Microalbuminuria and Corticosteroids
The goal of this observational design is to study the effects of intravenous corticosteroids
 on heart rate variability, arrhythmias and microalbuminuria. Some previous studies have shown
 that intravenous corticosteroids could induce bradycardia but also supra-ventricular
 tachycardia and atrial fibrillation.

 A second goal of this study is to investigate whether exogenous corticosteroids may induce
 microalbuminuria. A large retrospective study has revealed an association between
 microalbuminuria and corticosteroid use in the year preceding the measurement.
On intra-hospital patients, it will be explored the prevalence of arrythmias, the heart rate
 variability and the modification of the microalbuminuria level after intravenous infusion of
 corticosteroids. The investigator shall not initiate the treatment. Patients will receive
 high-dose intravenous corticosteroids for the treatment of different diseases. The
 departments, where the patients are enrolled, are: nephrology, neurology, dermatology and
 rheumatology and the day hospital. The day before the corticosteroids administration, a
 holter monitor will be started for at least 24h to detect arrhythmias and heart rate
 variations. By mean of a Finometer, beat-to-beat blood pressure, cardiac output and
 baroreflex sensitivity will be measured before, during and after the infusion. Blood and
 urine samples will be used to explore the effects of corticosteroids on microalbuminuria,
 electrolytes, CRP and glomerular filtration rate during the 3 days of observation.

 To our knowledge, it will be the first prospective trial to explore a link between
 intravenous corticosteroids administration and heart rate variability, Baroreflex
 Sensitivity, as well as microalbuminuria.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Starting high-dose intravenous corticotherapy

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  None