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Case Reports
. 2017 Nov;96(44):e8559.
doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000008559.

Transient sick sinus syndrome with complete atrioventricular block associated with ergonovine intake: A case report

Hui-Ting Wang  1 , Wen-Hao Liu, Yung-Lung Chen
Affiliations
Case Reports

Transient sick sinus syndrome with complete atrioventricular block associated with ergonovine intake: A case report

Hui-Ting Wang et al. Medicine (Baltimore). 2017 Nov.

Abstract

Rationale: More mature or older women are more likely to undergo in vitro fertilization and embryo implant. These women have a greater chance of receiving ergonovine therapy because of a suspected abortion. We present this case report to call attention to a latent lethal adverse effect in everyday obstetric practice using ergonovine. It requires more attention and close monitoring PATIENT CONCERNS:: We presented the case of a 38-year-old female patient with general weakness and mild chest tightness after ergonovine use.

Diagnoses: She was diagnosed as transient sick sinus syndrome and complete atrioventricular block with junctional escape rhythm after diagnostic work up.

Interventions: Conservative treatment with discontinuation of ergonovine and bed rest.

Outcomes: Her sinus rhythm returned to normal the day after ergonovine was discontinued. The patient remained symptom-free since recovery of her sinus rhythm.

Lessons: Ergonovine may cause symptomatic and lethal bradyarrhythmia. Withdrawal of the causative medication and adequate supportive care can lead to a favorable outcome in these patients. More related cases should be reported. Further evaluation for treatment and prognosis are necessary.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Electrocardiogram (ECG) performed at the onset of symptoms revealed complete AV block presenting with type 1 and type 2 second-degree sino-atrial exit block and junctional escape rhythm.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Sinus rhythm recovered the day after cessation of ergonovine.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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