Sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia after adenosine infusion

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pharmacology
• Electrophysiology

Background:

• Adenosine is the primary pharmacological agent for terminating regular narrow complex tachycardias.
• While generally considered safe, adenosine has been associated with transient proarrhythmic events.
• Understanding potential adverse effects is crucial for patient safety.

Observation:

• A patient received adenosine for a regular narrow complex tachycardia.
• Following adenosine infusion, the patient developed a sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia.
• This represents an unusual and significant proarrhythmic response.

Findings:

• The case demonstrates a rare but serious adverse effect of adenosine.
• Sustained ventricular tachycardia occurred despite adenosine's typical safety profile.
• This highlights the need for vigilance during adenosine administration.

Implications:

• Clinicians should be aware of the potential for adenosine to induce ventricular tachycardia.
• Further investigation into the mechanisms of adenosine-induced proarrhythmia may be warranted.
• This case underscores the importance of continuous electrocardiographic monitoring after adenosine administration.