Smartphone-based 12-lead electrocardiogram monitoring in an elderly patient with multimorbidity: A case report of comprehensive cardiac assessment using the Spandan device

Abstract

The advent of mobile health (mHealth) technologies, particularly smartphone-based 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) devices, has revolutionized cardiac care. This case report highlights the utility of the Spandan ECG device in managing an 84-year-old female patient with a complex medical history of hypertension (HTN), left ventricular hypertrophy, hypothyroidism, osteoarthritis, dyslipidemia, and obstructive sleep apnea. The patient, diagnosed with systemic HTN in 1992 and hypothyroidism in 2002, experienced a decline in mobility due to knee pain and was later diagnosed with bilateral osteoarthritis. Over the years, she developed additional comorbidities including hyperuricemia and dyslipidemia. On several occasions, fluctuating blood pressure and cardiac symptoms led to multiple hospital visits. Comprehensive diagnostic evaluations revealed significant cardiac conditions including right bundle branch block, sinus bradycardia, atrial fibrillation, and diastolic dysfunction. The use of the Spandan 12-lead ECG device facilitated the early detection of these abnormalities, enabling timely interventions. This case underscores the value of smartphone-based ECG devices in providing continuous cardiac monitoring and early diagnosis, particularly for elderly patients with multiple comorbidities. The Spandan device’s portability and ease of use allowed for effective point-of-care diagnostics, leading to proactive management and improved patient outcomes. The ability to perform ECGs at home and during medical consultations ensured that the critical changes in the patient’s cardiac status were promptly identified and addressed. The integration of the Spandan smartphone-based 12-lead ECG device into the patient’s care regimen proved instrumental in managing her complex cardiac conditions. This case highlights the potential of mHealth ECG technologies to enhance point-of-care diagnostics and promote patient-centered care, particularly for elderly individuals with multiple comorbidities. The widespread adoption of such technologies could significantly improve cardiovascular health outcomes and quality of life for patients with similar profiles.

Keywords

• cardiovascular disease
• comorbidity
• electrocardiography
• ischemia
• mobile health