Torsades de pointes can result from inherited conditions or medication side effects.
Torsades de pointes (TdP) is a specific type of ventricular tachycardia, a rapid, irregular heartbeat originating in the ventricles of the heart. Several factors can lead to TdP, broadly categorized into:
- Congenital (Inherited) Long QT Syndrome: Some individuals inherit genetic mutations that prolong the QT interval, predisposing them to TdP.
- Acquired Long QT Syndrome: This is more common and is often caused by:
- Medications: Certain drugs can prolong the QT interval as a side effect. According to the provided reference, taking "certain medicines that can cause Long QT interval" can lead to TdP. Examples of such medications include certain antiarrhythmics, antibiotics, antifungals, antipsychotics, and antidepressants.
- Electrolyte Imbalances: Low levels of potassium (hypokalemia), magnesium (hypomagnesemia), or calcium (hypocalcemia) can increase the risk.
- Other Medical Conditions: Heart disease, liver disease, and anorexia nervosa can also contribute.
In summary, Torsades de pointes is primarily caused by prolonged QT intervals, which can be either inherited or acquired, often due to medications or electrolyte imbalances.
