Key result
Electrolyte correction resolves recurrent VF driven by severe hypokalemia in Gitelman syndrome.
Why the study?
Although often considered benign, Gitelman syndrome may predispose to malignant ventricular arrhythmias.
Case Report (n=1)
Gitelman syndrome can cause life-threatening ventricular fibrillation in structurally normal hearts, highlighting the critical importance of prompt recognition and electrolyte management.
Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
Prompts electrolyte vigilance in Gitelman syndrome arrhythmias; leaves open need for prospective studies on arrhythmia prevention.
Background Gitelman syndrome (GS) is an autosomal recessive salt‐losing tubulopathy characterized by hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, and metabolic alkalosis. Although often considered benign, GS may predispose to malignant ventricular arrhythmias. Case presentation A 41‐year‐old male presented with cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation (VF). Severe hypokalemia (1.6 mmol/L) and hypomagnesemia were identified, with no structural heart disease on imaging. Recurrent VF persisted despite antiarrhythmic therapy and resolved only after electrolyte correction. Genetic testing revealed pathogenic SLC12A3 variants. Conclusion GS can cause an electrical storm in structurally normal hearts; prompt recognition and electrolyte management are essential.
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Kemal et al. (2026) conducted a case report in Gitelman syndrome (n=1). Electrolyte correction was evaluated. Gitelman syndrome with pathogenic SLC12A3 variants caused recurrent ventricular fibrillation and severe hypokalemia in a 41-year-old male, resolving only after electrolyte correction.
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