[Complete atrioventricular block due to hyperkalemia caused by rhabdomyolysis during treatment with statin]

Kardiol Pol. 2010 Dec;68(12):1376-8; discussion 1379.
[Article in Polish]

Abstract

Complete atrioventricular block can occur, among others, in case of hyperkalemia, that is a life-threatening complication of rhabdomyolysis. Statins constitute the medication group that is especially associated with a possibility of muscle complications. Frequency of statin-associated myalgia is 5-10%, and potentially fatal rhabdomyolysis--0.02-0.09%. We describe a male patient who was admitted due to syncope caused by complete atrioventricular block. Iatrogenic rhabdomyolysis with life-threatening hyperkalemia, that was related to statin, was diagnosed. After application of suitable pharmacotherapy, conduction abnormalities resolved. The patient was discharged in a good condition.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Atrioventricular Block / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Hyperkalemia / complications*
  • Hyperkalemia / etiology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Rhabdomyolysis / chemically induced*
  • Rhabdomyolysis / complications*
  • Simvastatin / adverse effects

Substances

  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
  • Simvastatin