Paradoxical effect of ajmaline in a patient with Brugada syndrome

Europace : European Pacing, Arrhythmias, and Cardiac Electrophysiology : Journal of the Working Groups on Cardiac Pacing, Arrhythmias, and Cardiac Cellular Electrophysiology of the European Society of Cardiology
Biagio SassoneMario Donateo

Abstract

The typical Brugada ECG pattern consists of a prominent J-wave associated with ST-segment elevation localized in the right precordial leads V1-V3. In many patients, the ECG presents periods of transient normalization and the Brugada-phenotype can be unmasked by the administration of class-I antiarrhythmics. Reports have documented the heterogeneity of the Brugada syndrome ECG-phenotype characterized by unusual localization of the ECG abnormalities in the inferior leads. Case report A 51-year-old man, without detectable structural heart disease, was referred to us because of a history of syncope, dizziness, and palpitations. The ECG showed a J-wave and ST-segment elevation in the right precordial leads, suggesting Brugada syndrome. As other causes of the ECG abnormalities were excluded, the patient underwent an electrophysiological study that documented easy induction of ventricular fibrillation. During infusion of ajmaline, new prominent J-waves and ST-segment elevation appeared in the inferior leads, whereas the basal ECG abnormalities in the right precordial leads normalized. After infusion of isoprenaline, the ECG-pattern resumed the typical Brugada pattern. An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator was recommended. In our p...Continue Reading

References

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May 6, 2004·Journal of Electrocardiology·Andrés Ricardo Pérez RieraPaulo Jorge Moffa

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Citations

Apr 25, 2013·Journal of Interventional Cardiac Electrophysiology : an International Journal of Arrhythmias and Pacing·Philippe MauryMohamed Chahine
Mar 19, 2013·Heart Rhythm : the Official Journal of the Heart Rhythm Society·A RollinP Maury
Feb 14, 2009·Journal of the American College of Cardiology·Michel HaïssaguerreJacques Clémenty

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