Acute left ventricular failure caused by acute on chronic alcohol consumption

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Toxicology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Alcohol consumption is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
• Acute on chronic alcohol intake represents a pattern of heavy drinking that may precipitate cardiac events.

Observation:

• A patient presented with symptoms of acute left ventricular failure.
• Cardiac imaging revealed a reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (26%) and increased left ventricular wall thickness.
• The patient also experienced atrial fibrillation.

Findings:

• The observed cardiac dysfunction was directly attributable to acute on chronic alcohol consumption.
• Left ventricular ejection fraction normalized upon discharge, indicating reversibility.
• Recurrent atrial fibrillation was linked to left-sided hemiplegia.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for severe cardiac toxicity from binge alcohol drinking.
• Prompt recognition and management of alcohol-induced cardiomyopathy are crucial for recovery.
• Understanding the link between atrial fibrillation and neurological events like hemiplegia is important for patient care.