Recurrent ventricular tachycardia due to pentamidine-induced cardiotoxicity |
| |
Authors: | M R Bibler T C Chou R J Toltzis P A Wade |
| |
Affiliation: | Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine 45267-0535. |
| |
Abstract: | Although pentamidine isethionate is effective in the treatment of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, it frequently causes serious adverse reactions. We report a case of reversible pentamidine-induced cardiotoxicity, characterized electrocardiographically by prolongation of the QT interval, T-wave inversion, and electrical alternans of the U-wave. In addition, the patient had repeated episodes of ventricular tachycardia that culminated in torsades de pointes. Our case re-emphasizes the need for close patient monitoring during pentamidine therapy. |
| |
Keywords: | |
|
|