Deterioration of heart rhythm during short-term hydroxychloroquine therapy for COVID-19: report of two cases

Abstract

The rapid spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has resulted in significant morbidity and mortality globally. Hydroxychloroquine is one of the medications for eradicating COVID-19. Despite concerns due to its potential cardiac toxicity, hydroxychloroquine is widely used in treating mild and moderate COVID-19 pneumonia. In this case report, we report two cases of Indonesian adult patients with suspected COVID-19 pneumonia who received hydroxychloroquine as part of the medications and experienced deterioration of cardiac conduction which required stopping the drug prematurely. This case report highlights the need for risk stratification, electrocardiogram monitor and QTc evaluation before and during hydroxychloroquine therapy.