Cardiovascular collapse after myocardial infarction due to centipede bite

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Cardiology
• Emergency Medicine

Background:

• Centipede envenomation is known to cause diverse systemic effects, ranging from local pain and swelling to more severe conditions like rhabdomyolysis.
• Acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) is an exceptionally rare complication of centipede bites, with only three documented cases in English medical literature.

Observation:

• A 31-year-old male presented with a swollen and painful right foot after being bitten by a golden-colored centipede.
• While undergoing diagnostic procedures for his foot injury, the patient developed chest pain, leading to cardiopulmonary arrest.
• Successful resuscitation was achieved, and electrocardiography revealed acute infero-posterolateral myocardial infarction.

Findings:

• The case demonstrates a rare but severe cardiovascular complication, acute myocardial infarction, directly linked to centipede envenomation.
• The patient experienced cardiopulmonary arrest, underscoring the potential for life-threatening outcomes from centipede bites.

Implications:

• This case emphasizes the need for heightened awareness among healthcare professionals regarding the potential for severe cardiac events following centipede bites, even in the absence of typical cardiac symptoms.
• Further research into the specific toxins responsible for cardiovascular effects in centipede envenomation may be warranted to improve patient management and outcomes.