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[Iatrogenic hyperkalemia, bradyarrhythmia and the role of pacing in the elderly - three case reports]

Robert Kowalik1, Jerzy Rekosz

  • 1Oddział Kardiologii Wojewódzkiej Stacji Pogotowia Ratunkowego, Warszawa, Poland.

Kardiologia Polska
|October 16, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Iatrogenic hyperkalemia can cause severe bradyarrhythmia in elderly patients. Potassium-lowering therapy is effective, though temporary pacing may be needed.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Internal Medicine
  • Clinical Pharmacology

Background:

  • Iatrogenic hyperkalemia is a potential complication of medical treatments.
  • Elderly patients are particularly vulnerable to electrolyte imbalances.
  • Severe hyperkalemia can manifest as cardiac arrhythmias.

Observation:

  • Three elderly patients presented with severe symptomatic bradyarrhythmia.
  • The bradyarrhythmia was directly linked to iatrogenic hyperkalemia.
  • Two patients required temporary cardiac pacing for management.

Findings:

  • Potassium-lowering therapy demonstrated effectiveness in all presented cases.
  • The study highlights the critical role of monitoring potassium levels.
  • Prompt treatment of hyperkalemia is essential for cardiac stability.

Implications:

  • This case series underscores the importance of recognizing and managing iatrogenic hyperkalemia.
  • Clinicians should consider hyperkalemia as a cause of bradyarrhythmia in at-risk populations.
  • Effective management strategies can prevent severe cardiac events and reduce the need for invasive procedures.

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