1. Quinine and the ABCs of Long QT: A Patient's Misfortune with Arthritis, (Alcoholic) Beverages, and Cramps.
- Author
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Sheehan ET, Frizzell JD, Gabaldon J, and West MB
- Subjects
- Aged, 80 and over, Antirheumatic Agents adverse effects, Arthritis, Rheumatoid drug therapy, Electrocardiography, Female, Food-Drug Interactions, Humans, Hydroxychloroquine adverse effects, Muscle Cramp drug therapy, Carbonated Beverages adverse effects, Long QT Syndrome chemically induced, Muscle Relaxants, Central adverse effects, Quinine adverse effects
- Abstract
A 91-year-old woman presented to the emergency department by ambulance after her family found her minimally responsive. Telemetry monitoring demonstrated episodes of non-sustained polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (PMVT) associated with significantly prolonged repolarization. Her medical history revealed that she was taking quinine or a derivative in three different forms: hydroxychloroquine, quinine sulfate (for leg cramps), and her gin mixed with tonic water (containing quinine). The present case is illustrative of classic etiologies and findings of acquired long QT syndrome, and serves as an important reminder for providers to take a complete medication history, including use of duplicative and alternative medicines and type of alcohol consumption., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they do not have a conflict of interest.
- Published
- 2016
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