Neural control of the heart. Central and peripheral.

The central nervous system through its modulation of autonomic activity plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis in the cardiovascular system and in integrating cardiovascular responses with behaviors. Thus, central and autonomic disturbances can lead to profound alterations in cardiac function manifested by cardiac arrhythmias and signs of myocardial injury. These disturbances can further compromise patients with primary central lesions. Rapid recognition and appropriate treatment of the cardiac complications as well as the underlying condition are critical for effective management of many such patients.