Fatal asthma attack induced by amiodarone in the elderly:two cases report and literature reviews / 中华老年医学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the mechanisms and clinical characteristics of fatal asthma attack induced by amiodarone in the elderly,and to discuss its serious potent risks.Methods We reported two cases of fatal asthma attack in the elderly with fast atrial fibrillation induced by amiodarone,and discussed the clinical manifestation and emergency treatment,with literatures review.Results The two patients presented with respiratory arrest.After targeted therapies,including artificial ventilation and hormone injection,the patients were capable of spontaneously breathing,while still in severe asthma attack.And further anti-asthma treatment led to a complete remission.Conclusions Amiodarone may cause extremely severe asthma attack in elder patients with tachyarrhythmia complicated with bronchial hyper-responsiveness diseases such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases.Clinicians should pay great attention to this situation and be prepared to cope with serious adverse reactions.