Incessant Nonsustained Ventricular Tachycardia Unmasking Pulmonary Embolism

Abstract

Background: Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a malignant ventricular arrhythmia that requires emergent evaluation and treatment. Ischemic heart disease is the most common cause, but its etiology can involve many other possibilities. Case summary: A 63-year-old man without structural heart disease presented with VT originating from the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT), which turned into electrical storm despite antiarrhythmics. A computed tomography scan revealed bilateral acute pulmonary embolism (PE), and he showed favorable progress after its treatment, without further arrhythmias. Discussion: This case highlights the importance of considering PE in the differential diagnosis of VT. Early detection and specific treatment are crucial for improving prognosis of PE, in addition to achieving effective control of the tachycardia by treating its trigger.