A case of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation following low voltage electrocution

Abstract

Background: Electrical injury may result in arrhythmias, however atrial fibrillation following low voltage electrocution is not a common occurrence. Case presentation. A 70-year-old South-Asian woman with no prior history of cardiovascular disease presented following an accidental low voltage electrocution with loss of consciousness. On initial assessment she was found to be in atrial fibrillation with a moderate to rapid ventricular rate. Troponin I and 2D echo were normal. Transient rise in markers of muscle damage were noted. The arrhythmia resolved spontaneously without active intervention. Conclusion: Loss of consciousness and the path of electrical conduction involving the heart may herald cardiac involvement following electrocution. Low voltage electrocution may cause cardiac insult. Conservative management may suffice in management of atrial fibrillation without cardiovascular compromise. © 2013 Navinan et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.