Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia: a case report and literature review

Abstract

Abstract Background Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) is an inherited ion channelopathy characterized by a structurally normal heart sensitive to catecholamines. It primarily presents as Bidirectional ventricular tachycardia (BiVT) and is a significant cause of sudden cardiac death in children. Case presentation We report our experience with central Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) therapy in a 4-year-old boy with CPVT. Despite these measures, his CPVT was refractory to standard medical treatment and mechanical ventilatory support, with symptom progression. Consequently, ECMO support was initiated in addition to existing treatment. The patient was successfully weaned off ECMO on the 10th day of therapy and was discharged in a good condition. Follow-up after discharge showed favorable outcomes. Conclusions The successful outcome in this case was attributed to the application of ECMO, which helped maintain the patient’s circulatory status and address progressively worsening cardiogenic shock and uncontrolled ventricular arrhythmia. In such situations, the early use of ECMO can provide essential circulatory support and stability for patients, as demonstrated in this case.

Keywords

• Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)
• Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT)
• Hemodynamics
• Pediatrics