Torsades de pointes
Torsades de pointes
Torsades de pointes (pronounced: tor-SADZ duh pwant) is a specific type of abnormal heart rhythm that can lead to sudden cardiac death. It is a form of ventricular tachycardia, and it is most commonly associated with a prolonged QT interval on an ECG.
Etymology
The term "Torsades de pointes" is of French origin, meaning "twisting of the points". This refers to the characteristic appearance of the ECG in this condition, where the QRS complex appears to twist around the isoelectric line.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Torsades de pointes may include dizziness, palpitations, fainting or sudden death. In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all.
Causes
Torsades de pointes is usually caused by medications that prolong the QT interval, or by certain medical conditions that can cause a prolonged QT interval, such as hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, and bradycardia. It can also occur in individuals with a genetic predisposition to a prolonged QT interval, a condition known as Long QT syndrome.
Treatment
Treatment of Torsades de pointes involves immediate discontinuation of any offending medications, correction of electrolyte imbalances, and administration of medications to normalize the heart rhythm, such as magnesium sulfate. In some cases, a temporary or permanent pacemaker may be required.
Related Terms
- Ventricular tachycardia
- QT interval
- Electrocardiogram
- Dizziness
- Palpitations
- Fainting
- Hypokalemia
- Hypomagnesemia
- Bradycardia
- Long QT syndrome
- Magnesium sulfate
- Pacemaker
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Torsades de pointes
- Wikipedia's article - Torsades de pointes
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