[Early cardiotoxicity of Hydroxychloroquine].

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Cardiology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is a widely used medication for systemic inflammatory diseases.
• Cardiac complications associated with anti-malarial drugs are infrequent and typically linked to prolonged use.
• Cardiotoxicity can arise from lysosomal dysfunction and intracytoplasmic inclusions.

Observation:

• A 77-year-old woman developed early and reversible cardiotoxicity.
• The adverse cardiac event occurred within 10 days of initiating HCQ therapy.
• The patient was treated for Whipple endocarditis.

Findings:

• The cardiotoxicity observed was likely due to the quinidine-like effect of Hydroxychloroquine.
• This case demonstrates an atypical presentation of HCQ-induced cardiotoxicity, occurring much earlier than typically reported.
• The cardiac dysfunction was reversible, suggesting prompt identification and cessation of the drug.

Implications:

• Understanding the mechanisms of anti-malarial drug cardiotoxicity is crucial for patient safety.
• Early recognition of Hydroxychloroquine cardiotoxicity can lead to reversible outcomes.
• This case underscores the importance of considering drug-induced cardiac effects, even with short-term use.