Electrical Injury-induced Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia with significant morbidity and mortality risks. Electrical shocks can elicit adverse cardiac effects, including arrhythmias, although AF following electrical injuries remains relatively rare. We present the case of a 45-year-old man who developed AF after accidentally touching a live cable carrying 220 volts during home construction. The patient exhibited palpitations and shortness of breath and was admitted to the emergency department. Electrocardiographic monitoring confirmed AF with an irregular heart rate of 106 bpm. Echocardiographic examination revealed AF with normal ejection fraction. Successful pharmacological cardioversion using digoxin restored normal sinus rhythm within 6 h. The mechanisms underlying AF after electrical injury are not fully understood, but they likely involve arrhythmogenic foci formation and alterations in cardiac ion channels. Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial, with digoxin proving effective in this case. AF is a rare but clinically significant occurrence following low-voltage electrical shocks. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential in resolving the arrhythmia and optimizing patient outcomes. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and risk factors associated with this rare occurrence and explore long-term outcomes and potential complications.