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Syncope and Inducible Ventricular Fibrillation in a Woman with Hemochromatosis

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Abstract

Background: Hemochromatosis has been associated with atrial tachyarrhythmias and congestive heart failure as a consequence of dilated or restrictive cardiomyopathy. Inducible ventricular fibrillation has not been previously described.

Methods and Results: An electrophysiologic study was conducted in a woman after two episodes of syncope. Polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (PMVT) and ventricular fibrillation (VF) were induced with ventricular programmed stimulation. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated signal loss in the liver consistent with hemochromatosis, but normal cardiac size and function. Hematologic studies supported a diagnosis of hemochromatosis.

Conclusion: Cardiac hemochromatosis may be associated with serious ventricular arrhythmias.

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Strobel, J.S., Fuisz, A.R., Epstein, A.E. et al. Syncope and Inducible Ventricular Fibrillation in a Woman with Hemochromatosis. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 3, 225–229 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1009891406964

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1009891406964

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