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Psychotropic drug-associated electrocardiographic presentation of diffuse J-waves in hypothermia: case report and literature review

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Abstract

The use of psychotropic drugs is often associated with electrocardiographic (ECG) QT-interval prolongation, but there are few reports of J-waves. This report describes the case of a schizophrenic patient under treatment with several psychotropic drugs (olanzapine, valproate, and flunitrazepam), in whom ECG J-waves diffusely appeared during a hypothermic episode. We further performed a literature review of psychotropic drug-related J-waves in hypothermia. The present case highlights the importance of recognizing psychotropic drug-related ECG J-waves on an early warning sign to ensure appropriate monitoring and/or treatment for possible life-threatening side effects of such medications.

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There is no relationship with industry and financial associations that might pose a conflict of interest. The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

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    Authors and Affiliations

    1. Department of Internal Medicine, Nishida Hospital, Tsuruoka-Nishi-Machi 2-266, Saiki, Oita, 876-0047, Japan

      Hajime Kataoka & Eiji Yano

    2. Division of Pharmacy, Nishida Hospital, Oita, Japan

      Hirofumi Kajiwara

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    1. Hajime Kataoka
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    2. Hirofumi Kajiwara
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    3. Eiji Yano
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    Correspondence to Hajime Kataoka.

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    All authors have contributions in the presentation of the manuscript and also have read and agreed to the contents of the manuscript. This manuscript or part of it has not been published previously.

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    Kataoka, H., Kajiwara, H. & Yano, E. Psychotropic drug-associated electrocardiographic presentation of diffuse J-waves in hypothermia: case report and literature review. Heart Vessels 31, 996–1002 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00380-015-0646-4

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