Lightning induced atrial fibrillation

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia that occurs in paroxysmal and persistent forms. It occurs in varied situations but lightning induced AF is extremely rare. Here is a case which reverted to sinus rhythm spontaneously. This 37-year-old man without any underlying heart disease had new onset AF after being struck by a lightning. Oral Metoprolol alone was given to control ventricular rate. Spontaneous reversion to sinus rhythm within 36 hours is in favor of new onset lightning induced AF.