An unusual case of sustained ventricular tachycardia following a wasp bite

Abstract

Sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a life-threatening condition which requires immediate intervention. We report a case of unusual etiology of sustained VT in a 42-year-old male after a wasp bite in the absence of anaphylaxis. The patient was treated with amiodarone and improved within 48 h. Thus, wasp stings can lead to serious tachyarrhythmias which can be life-threatening. Emergency care physicians should be aware of such arrhythmias in the setting of wasp bites which can be fatal.

Phenotype and risk factors of venom-induced anaphylaxis: A case-control study of the European Anaphylaxis Registry

“…7,12,17 VIA has been associated with Kounis syndrome (coronary arterial spasm induced by the release of mast cell mediators 18,19 ) and cardiac arrhythmias usually occurring in patients with preexisting heart disease. 20 The rate of concomitant cardiovascular diseases was higher in VIA than in non-VIA. They are an essential cofactor increasing the risk of a severe reaction if Hymenoptera elicited the anaphylaxis.…”