Electrocardiographic findings after acute absinthe intoxication
International Journal of Cardiology
|July 11, 2006
Summary
Severe alcohol intoxication, particularly from absinthe, can cause rare heart rhythm issues. This case highlights Mobitz type-I atrioventricular block, a type of bradyarrhythmia, in a patient with alcohol intoxication.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Alcohol intoxication is a common emergency department presentation.
- While alcohol is known to cause tachyarrhythmias, its association with bradyarrhythmias is less understood.
- Absinthe, a high-proof alcoholic beverage, contains various botanicals that may have unique toxicological effects.
Observation:
- A 29-year-old male presented with coma and severe alcohol intoxication.
- Initial workup revealed no other drug use, cardiac abnormalities, or electrolyte imbalances.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) demonstrated Mobitz type-I atrioventricular block progressing to a rapid junctional rhythm.
Findings:
- The patient consumed a significant amount of absinthe.
- The observed Mobitz type-I atrioventricular block and subsequent junctional rhythm are exceptional findings in acute alcohol intoxication.
- This represents a novel association between absinthe consumption and severe bradyarrhythmia.
Implications:
- Severe alcohol intoxication, especially with absinthe, can precipitate unusual cardiac arrhythmias.
- This case expands the spectrum of known cardiac complications of alcohol abuse.
- Further investigation into the cardiotoxic effects of absinthe and its constituents is warranted.
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