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Updated: Jul 11, 2026
08:28
Methods for ECG Evaluation of Indicators of Cardiac Risk, and Susceptibility to Aconitine-induced Arrhythmias in Rats Following Status Epilepticus
Published on: April 5, 2011
Brugada syndrome as a potential cardiac risk factor during electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
Christian Luckhaus1, Marcus Hennersdorf, Michael Bell
1Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Heinrich-Heine-University, Duesseldorf, Germany. christian.luckhaus@lvr.de
Summary
Brugada syndrome (BS), a rare heart condition, was diagnosed after a patient experienced asystole during electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). This highlights BS as a potential cardiac risk during ECT procedures.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Genetics
- Neurology
Background:
- Brugada syndrome (BS) is a hereditary sodium channelopathy associated with ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death.
- BS is characterized by intermittent ECG abnormalities, often undiagnosed due to normal baseline recordings.
Observation:
- A case of prolonged asystole (>5 seconds) occurred during electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
- The patient was subsequently diagnosed with Brugada syndrome.
Findings:
- Brugada syndrome, though rare, presents a significant cardiac risk during ECT.
- ECG abnormalities in BS can be intermittent and require specialized cardiological examination for diagnosis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering Brugada syndrome in patients experiencing cardiac events during ECT.
- Awareness of BS as a potential risk factor may improve patient safety during ECT and other procedures affecting cardiac ion channels.
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