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Pulse Methylprednisolone-Induced Sinus Bradycardia: A Case Report
1From the Gazi Yasargil Training and Research Hospital, Diyarbakir, Turkey.
Summary
High-dose methylprednisolone can cause bradycardia, a slow heart rate. This case report highlights the need for cardiovascular monitoring during pulse steroid therapy.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Corticosteroids, particularly high-dose pulse methylprednisolone, are widely used but associated with adverse effects.
- Common side effects include hyperglycemia, gastrointestinal intolerance, and psychiatric symptoms.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old male developed symptomatic sinus bradycardia after receiving pulse methylprednisolone for graft-versus-host disease.
- Bradycardia is a rare but reported adverse effect of pulse steroid therapy.
Findings:
- Discontinuation and dose reduction of methylprednisolone led to heart rate normalization (68 to 78 beats/min).
- Methylprednisolone-induced bradycardia was diagnosed after excluding other causes.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of vigilant cardiovascular monitoring in patients undergoing high-dose methylprednisolone therapy.
- Dose-related cardiovascular risks, including bradycardia, necessitate careful patient observation.
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