Key result
Refractory ventricular tachycardia in a middle-aged male was successfully managed with synchronized cardioversion and amiodarone, leading to the diagnosis and treatment of underlying cardiac sarcoidosis.
Why the study?
Electrical or VT storms are increasingly common, making timely recognition, rhythm identification, and prompt emergency intervention critical to saving lives.
Case Report (n=1)
No
Refractory ventricular tachycardia requires prompt management with cardioversion and anti-arrhythmics, and should prompt investigation for underlying causes such as cardiac sarcoidosis.
Prompt investigation for sarcoidosis warranted in refractory VT; single case leaves open optimal immunosuppression strategies.
The incidence of electrical storms or Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) storms is increasing due to the growing use of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs), higher rates of ischemic heart disease, non-compliance with anti-arrhythmic medications, and misuse of other drugs. Timely recognition, accurate rhythm identification, and prompt intervention are critical in saving lives. We present a case of a middle-aged male with a prior diagnosis of idiopathic VT who arrived at the Emergency Department (ED) with palpitations. During his ED stay, he experienced refractory VT, which was managed through anti-arrhythmic medications and multiple synchronized cardioversions. Further investigation led to a diagnosis of cardiac sarcoidosis, and he was successfully treated.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Desai et al. (2025) conducted a case report in Refractory ventricular tachycardia (n=1). Anti-arrhythmic medications and synchronized cardioversion was evaluated on Clinical stabilization and rhythm conversion. Refractory ventricular tachycardia in a middle-aged male was successfully managed with synchronized cardioversion and amiodarone, leading to the diagnosis and treatment of underlying cardiac sarcoidosis.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: