Torsades de Pointes Following Massive Transfusion Protocol: Case Highlighting Electrolyte Disturbances After Blood...

Torsades de Pointes (TdP) is caused by QT-prolonging medications, electrolyte disturbances, structural heart disease, congenital long-QT syndromes, female gender, and age. If left untreated, it can lead to cardiac arrest and death.

In this report, we highlight a case of TdP after the transfusion of massive blood products leading to electrolyte disturbances causing QT prolongation.

This case underscores the need for careful electrolyte monitoring and QT assessment in patients receiving large-volume blood products, and refinement of guidelines regarding electrolyte monitoring and repletion posttransfusion.

TdP is an often-fatal arrhythmia that can be caused by QT prolongation secondary to electrolyte disturbances. Massive blood transfusions can predispose patients to electrolyte depletion, QT prolongation, and TdP. Further refinement of guidelines regarding electrolyte monitoring and QT interval assessment is warranted to prevent complications such as TdP.