Torsade de Pointes: A Comprehensive Review of Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Approach

Year : 2025 | Volume : 15 | Issue : 01 | Page : 36 41
    By

    Ancita Alita Mendonca,

  • Sanjata Naik,

  • Albina E. Pereira,

  1. Nursing Tuter, Department of nursing, R.N.S College of Nursing, Murudeshwara, Karnataka, India
  2. Lecturer, Department of nursing, R.N.S College of Nursing, Murudeshwara, Karnataka, India
  3. Nursing Tuter, Department of nursing, R.N.S College of Nursing, Murudeshwara, Karnataka, India

Abstract

Torsade de pointes (TdP) is a rare form of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, marked by fluctuating QRS complex amplitudes that twist around the isoelectric line on an electrocardiogram (ECG). It is commonly linked to prolonged QT intervals, which can be either acquired or congenital. While TdP often resolves spontaneously, it may lead to fatal ventricular fibrillation if untreated. Medications, electrolyte imbalances, and genetic conditions like Jervell and Lange-Nielsen syndrome contribute to QT prolongation, increasing TdP risk. Women are more susceptible, as they tend to have longer QT intervals. Clinical evaluation includes ECG and risk assessment for QT prolongation, while treatment focuses on correcting underlying electrolyte imbalances and, in severe cases, electrical cardioversion or pharmacological intervention. Prevention strategies emphasize careful medication management and the use of decision-support tools to minimize QT-prolonging drug use.

Keywords: Torsade de pointes (TdP), QT prolongation, Romano-Ward syndrome, Drug-induced QT prolongation, Overdrive pacing, Tisdale QT risk score.

[This article belongs to Research and Reviews: A Journal of Health Professions ]

How to cite this article:
Ancita Alita Mendonca, Sanjata Naik, Albina E. Pereira. Torsade de Pointes: A Comprehensive Review of Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Approach. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Health Professions. 2025; 15(01):36-41.
How to cite this URL:
Ancita Alita Mendonca, Sanjata Naik, Albina E. Pereira. Torsade de Pointes: A Comprehensive Review of Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Approach. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Health Professions. 2025; 15(01):36-41. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjohp/article=2025/view=196725


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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 15
Issue 01
Received 23/10/2024
Accepted 29/11/2024
Published 03/02/2025
Publication Time 103 Days
425

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