Related Experiment Videos
Ciprofloxacin-induced torsade de pointes
International Journal of Cardiology
|January 3, 2006
Summary
A rare case of torsade de pointes (a type of ventricular tachycardia) occurred in a healthy young Marine after receiving intravenous ciprofloxacin for pneumonia. This highlights the need for caution with fluoroquinolones, especially in patients with prolonged QT intervals.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fluoroquinolones, such as ciprofloxacin, are commonly prescribed antibiotics.
- QT interval prolongation is a known risk factor for cardiac arrhythmias.
- Torsade de pointes is a specific type of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia.
Observation:
- A 22-year-old healthy Marine developed torsade de pointes.
- The cardiac event was associated with intravenous ciprofloxacin treatment for pneumonia.
- The patient had a prolonged QT interval.
Findings:
- Intravenous ciprofloxacin can induce torsade de pointes, even in young, healthy individuals.
- The risk of fluoroquinolone-associated torsade de pointes is considered low.
- Pre-existing QT prolongation may increase the risk of this adverse event.
Implications:
- Clinicians should exercise caution when prescribing ciprofloxacin, particularly in patients with risk factors for QT prolongation.
- Monitoring for cardiac arrhythmias may be warranted in certain patient populations receiving fluoroquinolones.
- Further research into the precise mechanisms and risk stratification of quinolone-induced torsade de pointes is needed.