Full recovery after prolonged resuscitation from cardiac arrest due to propafenone intoxication: A case report

RATIONALE: The prognosis of cardiac arrest (CA) induced by propafenone intoxication was thought to be very poor. The maximal duration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for propafenone induced CA is unknown. PATIENT CONCERNS: We describe a case that was successfully resuscitated after prolonged CPR (totaling 340 minutes during one hospital visit) for propafenone intoxication without subsequent neurological sequela. DIAGNOSES: A previously healthy 36-year-old female who developed multiple and prolonged CAs after consuming 98 tablets of 50mg propafenone. The CPR duration of this case, to the best of our knowledge, is the longest of all existing propafenone-induced CPR events to still have full recovery. We also analyse the contributing factors to this successful CPR. INTERVENTIONS: Sodium bicarbonate, inotropic drugs and pacemaker application did not prevent the occurrence of CA. A full recovery was eventually achieved after prolonged CPR with a mechanical CPR device, blood purification and other aggressive supportive treatments. OUTCOMES: Full recovery without neurological sequela. LESSONS: Prolonged CPR including the application of mechanical CPR devices should be considered in propafenone-related CA, especially in young patients without significant comorbidities and delayed resuscitation.