Intrathecal baclofen withdrawal: A rare cause of reversible cardiomyopathy.
Publication/Presentation Date
3-1-2016
Abstract
Baclofen is commonly used to treat spasticity of central etiology. Unfortunately, a potentially lethal withdrawal syndrome can complicate its use. This is especially true when the drug is administered intrathecally. There are very few cases of baclofen withdrawal leading to reversible cardiomyopathy described in the literature. The authors present a patient with a history of chronic intrathecal baclofen use who, in the setting of acute baclofen withdrawal, develops laboratory, electrocardiogram, and echocardiogram abnormalities consistent with cardiomyopathy. Upon reinstitution of intrathecal baclofen, the cardiomyopathy and associated abnormalities quickly resolve. Although rare, it is crucial to be aware of this reversible cardiomyopathy to ensure its prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Volume
18
Issue
1
First Page
13
Last Page
17
ISSN
1748-295X
Published In/Presented At
Awuor, S. O., Kitei, P. M., Nawaz, Y., & Ahnert, A. M. (2016). Intrathecal baclofen withdrawal: A rare cause of reversible cardiomyopathy. Acute cardiac care, 18(1), 13–17. https://doi.org/10.3109/17482941.2016.1174273
Disciplines
Medicine and Health Sciences
PubMedID
27682809
Department(s)
Department of Medicine, Cardiology Division
Document Type
Article