Exercise Stress Test-Induced Atrioventricular Dissociation With Syncope

Zin Thawdar Oo1,2, Dishang Bhavsar3,4,5, Thin Phyu Phyu Aung6

  • 1University of Medicine 1, Yangon, Myanmar.

Ochsner Journal
|September 27, 2021
PubMed

Insights

The exercise stress test, used for diagnosing coronary artery disease, can rarely cause atrioventricular dissociation. Prompt recognition and treatment of this complication are essential for patient recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Diagnostic Testing

Background:

  • Exercise stress testing is a common diagnostic tool for coronary artery disease.
  • While generally safe, potential complications like heart block, though rare, necessitate physician awareness.

Observation:

  • A 65-year-old female experienced angina-like chest pain and underwent an exercise stress test.
  • During the recovery phase, she developed atrioventricular dissociation with junctional rhythm and syncope.

Findings:

  • The patient's condition resolved promptly with intravenous normal saline treatment.
  • This case highlights a rare but unpredictable complication of exercise stress testing.

Implications:

  • Clinicians must remain vigilant for rare adverse events during exercise stress tests.
  • Timely intervention is crucial for managing complications such as atrioventricular dissociation and ensuring patient safety.

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