Torsades de Pointes ventricular tachycardia in a pediatric patient treated with fluconazole.
Fluconazole is an antifungal medication that has been reported to cause prolongation of the QT interval and Torsades de Pointes (TdP) ventricular tachycardia in adults. We describe the case of an 11-year-old child treated with fluconazole who developed ventricular arrhythmia culminating in TdP. We discuss the possible roles played by genetic and environmental factors in this child's rhythm disturbances. After briefly summarizing similar cases from the adult literature, we outline the putative mechanism by which fluconazole may cause arrhythmia. This case should alert pediatricians to the possible risks of fluconazole use, especially in the presence of electrolyte abnormalities, diuretic use, therapy with other pro-arrhythmic agents, or suspicion of congenital Long-QT Syndrome.
Esch
Jesse J
JJ
Department of Pediatrics, Stollery Children's Hospital, 2E1 WMC, 8440-112 Street, T6G 2R7 Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. jesch@ualberta.ca
Kantoch
Michal J
MJ
D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002177:Candidiasis / Q000188:drug therapy; D002648:Child; D004562:Electrocardiography; D015725:Fluconazole / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006329:Heart Conduction System / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012772:Shock, Septic / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology; D016171:Torsades de Pointes / Q000139:chemically induced*
D000935:Antifungal Agents; D015725:Fluconazole