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Complete AV-block secondary to lithium-clozapine therapy and relapsing multiple sclerosis in a bipolar patient

Edward E E Gabeler1, Addy J M van Miltenburg

  • 1Cardiology Department, Sint Franciscus Gasthuis, Rotterdam, Netherlands. eeegabeler@hotmail.com

BMJ Case Reports
|June 8, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Complete atrioventricular block (CAVB) is a serious condition with a high mortality risk if untreated. This case highlights a rare cause of CAVB due to lithium-clozapine therapy in a patient with multiple sclerosis.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Neurology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Complete atrioventricular block (CAVB) is a potentially lethal cardiac arrhythmia.
  • Untreated CAVB carries a significant mortality risk (OR 3.2 within 30 days).
  • Common causes include myocardial infarction, congenital defects, and toxic exposures.

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