Differential Diagnosis for Bidirectional Ventricular Tachycardia
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Digitalis toxicity: This is the most common cause of bidirectional ventricular tachycardia, characterized by a unique pattern of alternating QRS complexes. Digitalis toxicity can occur due to excessive levels of digitalis glycosides, such as digoxin, which are used to treat heart failure and atrial fibrillation.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT): This is a rare genetic disorder that can cause bidirectional ventricular tachycardia, especially during periods of high sympathetic activity. CPVT is often associated with a family history of sudden cardiac death.
- Andersen-Tawil syndrome: This is a rare genetic disorder that affects the heart's potassium channels, leading to various arrhythmias, including bidirectional ventricular tachycardia.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Myocardial infarction: Although less likely to cause bidirectional ventricular tachycardia, myocardial infarction can lead to various life-threatening arrhythmias, including ventricular tachycardia. Missing this diagnosis could be catastrophic.
- Cardiac sarcoidosis: This condition can cause ventricular arrhythmias, including bidirectional ventricular tachycardia, due to granulomatous infiltration of the heart. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent sudden cardiac death.
Rare Diagnoses
- Familial bidirectional ventricular tachycardia: This is an extremely rare genetic condition that can cause bidirectional ventricular tachycardia without any underlying cardiac disease.
- Mitochondrial myopathies: Certain mitochondrial disorders, such as Kearns-Sayre syndrome, can affect the heart and cause various arrhythmias, including bidirectional ventricular tachycardia. These conditions are rare and often associated with other systemic symptoms.