What is a potential association of Cheyne-Stokes respirations?

Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by a cyclical pattern of breathing that involves periods of deep, rapid breaths followed by periods of apnea. This pattern is often associated with central nervous system conditions, particularly those affecting the brain's respiratory centers. One significant association is with decerebrate or decorticate posturing, which indicates severe brain injury or dysfunction.

In patients with significant neurological compromise, such as those caused by strokes, traumatic brain injury, or other central nervous system disturbances, Cheyne-Stokes respirations can occur due to the disrupted signals from the brain to control breathing. The presence of decorticate posturing specifically indicates that there is damage to the cerebral hemispheres and that the brainstem’s reflexes are still functioning to some extent, which explains the disordered breathing pattern seen in Cheyne-Stokes respirations.

While conditions like subdural hematomas, emphysema, and pneumonia can impact respiration, they do not typically manifest with the distinctive pattern of Cheyne-Stokes breathing that highlights an underlying central nervous system issue. The cyclical nature of the breathing pattern is key to understanding its strong association with neurological impairment, particularly with decorticate posturing.