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Transient Trifascicular Block in Severe Hyperkalemia
Navnit Agarwal1, Anurag Singh2, Ripudaman Gaba2
1Professor.
The Journal of the Association of Physicians of India
|September 10, 2016
Summary
Hyperkalemia can cause dangerous heart rhythm problems. This case shows trifascicular block, a rare but serious arrhythmia, resolved with potassium reduction.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Hyperkalemia is a common electrolyte imbalance.
- It can lead to severe cardiac conduction abnormalities and potentially lethal arrhythmias.
- Complete heart block and Mobitz Type II second-degree AV block are known risks.
Observation:
- A case of trifascicular block was observed.
- This conduction abnormality was directly linked to hyperkalemia.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) findings confirmed the trifascicular block.
Findings:
- The patient's trifascicular block and associated symptoms resolved upon lowering serum potassium levels.
- Follow-up ECG revealed a left anterior hemiblock, indicating resolution of the acute hyperkalemic effect.
- This demonstrates a reversible cause of trifascicular block.
Implications:
- Trifascicular block is an infrequently reported cardiac dysrhythmia associated with hyperkalemia.
- Emergency physicians should consider hyperkalemia in patients presenting with conduction abnormalities.
- Prompt recognition and management of hyperkalemia are crucial for preventing severe cardiac events.
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