Atrial Fibrillation Associated With Alcohol Ingestion in Adolescence

Abstract

An alcohol-naive 16-year-old male is presented with alcohol-induced atrial fibrillation. Past medical history, review of systems, and presentation were all otherwise benign. Atrial fibrillation occurred early in the intoxication at an alcohol level slightly higher than the legal limit for intoxication (153 mg/dL). His complete cardiac evaluation was otherwise normal. The atrial fibrillation was not treated aggressively and resolved as the alcohol level quickly fell to zero, consistent with his "nonalcoholic" metabolism. Complete follow-up found the adolescent with no evidence of cardiac or other disease.

Acute Effects of Low Doses of Ethanol on Left and Right Ventricular Function in Young Healthy Subjects

“…In this view, the prognostic impact of potentially recurrent LV dysfunction secondary to habitual light alcohol drinking is worthy of further exploration. An association between ethanol intake and acute rhythm disturbances including atrial fibrillation and life‐threatening ventricular arrhythmias—the so‐called holiday heart syndrome (Koul et al., 2005)—has been described after binge drinking in individuals with no clinical evidence of heart disease (Thornton, 1984). Nonetheless, whether an acute depression in LV myocardial function may play a role in the genesis of this syndrome is unknown (Cameli et al., 2009).…”

Alcohol consumption and risk of atrial fibrillation: Observational and genetic estimates of association

“…binge drinking), which could increase the risk of triggering a single episode of atrial fibrillation, as reported anecdotally. [32][33][34][35][36]…”

Effects of alcohol on atrial fibrillation: myths and truths

“…After four weeks of abstinence, the test was repeated and no atrial fibrillation was observed. Finally, Koul et al (2005) described one case of alcohol-induced atrial fibrillation in a 16-year-old male.…”