Electrocardiographic manifestation of digoxin toxicity in a Pomeranian dog

Abstract

This case report describes several electrocardiographic findings in an 8-years old female Pomeranian dog that was referred with a history of digoxin overdose. Electrocardiographic abnormalities detected in this case could be classified as primary electrocardiographic disturbances, reflecting cardiac chamber enlargement and secondary ECG changes, attributed to digoxin toxicity. ECG manifestations of digoxin toxicity such as first and second degree AV blocks completely disappeared following digoxin withdrawal. Therefore, veterinarians should be aware of the possibility of digoxin toxicity due to its narrow therapeutic margins. The purpose of this report is to increase awareness of small animal practitioners about adverse cardiotoxic effects of cardiac glycosides. It also highlights the significance of electrocardiographic monitoring for diagnosis and management of digoxin induced cardiac arrhythmias and conduction disturbances in small animal patients