What does Cushing's triad consist of?

Cushing's triad is a clinical syndrome that indicates increased intracranial pressure and consists of three specific signs: bradycardia (slow heart rate), hypertension (high blood pressure), and unresponsiveness (altered level of consciousness). This triad is critical in recognizing a potential crisis involving the brain, such as a traumatic brain injury or a mass effect leading to brain herniation.

Bradycardia occurs as a reflex response to increased pressure in the cranial cavity, which influences the vagus nerve. Hypertension develops as the body attempts to maintain cerebral perfusion against the elevated intracranial pressure. Unresponsiveness reflects the brain's decreased ability to function properly as pressure hampers blood flow and neurological function.

Understanding Cushing's triad is essential for healthcare providers as it helps to identify life-threatening conditions and prompts immediate intervention to avoid further brain damage.