Lithium-induced ECG modifications: navigating from acute coronary syndrome to Brugada syndrome

Abstract

Lithium is frequently used in the treatment of bipolar disorders and is known to induce ECG alterations. This case study describes various patterns of lithium-induced ECG modifications in a patient with acute-on-chronic lithium intoxication. Clinicians should be familiar with this problem as it can have life-threatening consequences and lead to important changes in patient’s management. Our patient was admitted for acute delirium with an ECG showing atrial fibrillation with wide QRS and ST-segment elevation. These modifications were first mistaken for an acute myocardial infarction and a diagnosis of Brugada syndrome was finally reached. Treatment after the acute phase implied changes in the therapeutic modality and required frequent monitoring.