Repetitive polymorphic ventricular tachycardia initiated by phase 4 block in the His-Purkinje system

J Electrocardiol. 2010 Sep-Oct;43(5):415-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jelectrocard.2009.12.011. Epub 2010 Jan 22.

Abstract

We report a case of a patient who developed repetitive episodes of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia with a stereotypical pattern of initiation. A premature atrial complex would result in a brief pause followed by left bundle branch block aberrancy. Ventricular bigeminy would ensue followed by episodes of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, some requiring cardioversion. We postulate that delay within the His-Purkinje system initiated by phase 4 block was proarrhythmic in this patient.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Bundle of His / physiopathology*
  • Bundle-Branch Block / physiopathology*
  • Electrocardiography*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Purkinje Fibers / physiopathology*
  • Tachycardia, Ventricular / physiopathology*