A case of carbon monoxide poisoning presenting with supraventricular tachycardia

Abstract

Carbon monoxide intoxication is one of the most common types of poisoning in the world. Cardiac manifestations after exposure to carbon monoxide including myocardial ischemia, heart failure and arrhythmias have been reported. A 17-year-old woman was admitted to the emergency service with the complaints of palpitation, headache and nausea. Electrocardiogram revealed supraventricular tachycardia. The arterial blood gas analysis was normal. Her carboxyhemoglobin level was 19% and oxygen treatment was started promptly. Echocardiographic examination demonstrated normal cardiac function. To the best of our knowledge, this case report is the first carbon monoxide intoxication case in the literature presenting with supraventricular tachycardia attack. © 2011 The Japanese Society of Internal Medicine.