Brugada phenocopy in concomitant ethanol and heroin overdose

Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol. 2015 Jan;20(1):87-90. doi: 10.1111/anec.12171. Epub 2014 Jun 5.

Abstract

Brugada phenocopy describes conditions with Brugada-like ECG pattern but without true congenital Brugada syndrome. We report a case of 44-year-old man with no known medical history who presented with loss of consciousness. Toxicology screening was positive for opiates and high serum alcohol level. His initial ECG showed Brugada type 1 pattern which resolved after several hours of observation and treatment with continuous naloxone infusion. Patient regained his consciousness and disclosed heroin abuse and drinking alcohol. This case highlights the heroin overdose as a possible cause of Brugada phenocopy.

Keywords: Brugada syndrome; electrocardiography; electrophysiology; noninvasive techniques.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brugada Syndrome / chemically induced*
  • Brugada Syndrome / physiopathology*
  • Drug Overdose / drug therapy
  • Drug Overdose / physiopathology*
  • Electrocardiography / drug effects
  • Ethanol / poisoning*
  • Heroin / poisoning*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Naloxone / therapeutic use
  • Narcotic Antagonists / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Narcotic Antagonists
  • Naloxone
  • Ethanol
  • Heroin