Persistent second-degree atrioventricular block following adenosine infusion for nuclear stress testing

J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown). 2008 Mar;9(3):304-7. doi: 10.2459/JCM.0b013e3282785288.

Abstract

The agents used for nuclear stress testing (NST) including adenosine, dobutamine, and dipyridamole, are generally well tolerated and the incidence of serious complications associated with their use in NST is relatively low. Adenosine possesses a potent inhibitory effect on the atrioventricular (AV) node and may induce a transient conduction defect which could result in first-, second-, or third-degree heart block in some patients. The use of the potent AV nodal blocker adenosine for nuclear stress testing in patients with evidence of underlying conduction system disease may result in serious complications. We present the case of a 79-year-old man who had sustained second-degree AV block requiring permanent pacemaker implantation following adenosine infusion for nuclear stress testing. We also review the literature regarding the association between adenosine NST and AV block.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adenosine / administration & dosage
  • Adenosine / adverse effects*
  • Aged
  • Atrioventricular Block / chemically induced*
  • Atrioventricular Block / physiopathology
  • Atrioventricular Block / therapy
  • Cardiac Pacing, Artificial
  • Electrocardiography, Ambulatory / drug effects
  • Exercise Test / adverse effects*
  • Exercise Test / methods
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Infusions, Intravenous
  • Male
  • Myocardial Ischemia / diagnosis
  • Vasodilator Agents / administration & dosage
  • Vasodilator Agents / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Vasodilator Agents
  • Adenosine