An Unusual Case of Delayed-Onset Rituximab-Induced Ventricular Tachycardia: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Oncology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Cancer therapies, including rituximab, can cause cardiac adverse effects.
• Rituximab-associated ventricular tachycardia is not well-understood.
• Early identification and monitoring are crucial for managing treatment-related cardiac issues.

Observation:

• A rituximab-naive patient with no cardiac history developed ventricular tachycardia.
• The event occurred 14 hours after rituximab infusion initiation and 6 hours after cessation.
• The tachycardia was non-sustained and polymorphic.

Findings:

• This represents the fourth reported case of rituximab-associated ventricular tachycardia.
• The patient experienced a single episode of non-sustained polymorphic ventricular tachycardia.
• Extensive monitoring did not reveal further significant arrhythmias.

Implications:

• This case adds to the limited understanding of rituximab-induced cardiac toxicity.
• It underscores the need for vigilance and cardiac monitoring in patients receiving rituximab.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms and optimal management of this rare adverse event.