Lithium Toxicity: A Case Report of Toxicity Resulting in a Third-degree Heart Block
Samantha L Gaetani1, Alexandra M Amaducci2, Derek Fikse2
1Lehigh Valley Health Network/University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Department of Emergency and Hospital Medicine, Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Introduction:
Lithium is a medication used to treat bipolar disorder. It has a narrow therapeutic index, which frequently causes toxicity in patients.
Case Report:
We present an unusual case of a 66-year-old female with a history of bipolar disorder on chronic lithium, who developed a third-degree heart block, encephalopathy, and acute renal failure because of lithium toxicity.
Conclusion:
This case highlights a rare but life-threatening case of complete heart block in the setting of lithium toxicity. The patient was treated with hemodialysis and pacemaker placement.
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