Magnesium deficiency contributing to ventricular tachycardia. Two case reports

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Electrophysiology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a potentially life-threatening arrhythmia.
• Magnesium plays a crucial role in cardiac function and electrical stability.
• The link between magnesium deficiency and VT is not fully established.

Observation:

• Two patients presented with recurrent ventricular tachycardia.
• These episodes were suspected to be linked to magnesium deficiency.
• Skeletal muscle biopsies and blood samples were analyzed before and after treatment.

Findings:

• Magnesium infusions led to significant magnesium retention in patients.
• VT attacks ceased permanently in one patient following infusion.
• VT episodes were temporarily resolved in the second patient.

Implications:

• Magnesium repletion may be a viable therapeutic strategy for certain cases of VT.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms linking magnesium and VT.
• This study highlights the importance of assessing magnesium levels in patients with unexplained VT.