A Sudden Complication: Electrocute-Induced Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract

The most serious complications developing after an electric shock are cardiac arrhythmias, skin lesions, and multiple organ injuries after a fall from heights. Although mortality due to high-voltage electric shocks is higher, low-voltage electrical shocks can cause cardiac complications. Of the cardiac complications due to electric shock, myocardial necrosis, and ventricular arrhythmias are more common. Although rarer than ventricular arrhythmias, supraventricular arrhythmias can also occur. However, the mechanism of developing arrhythmias after electric shocks cannot be completely explained. In this present case report, AF with rapid ventricular response which developed after a 380-volt electrical shock in a 42-year-old male patient with no risk factors for AF will be discussed.