Acute Renal Failure and Hemolytic Anemia After Electrical Cardioversion In A Patient With Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation.

Abstract

A 65-year-old man presented progressively worsening shortness of breath due to acute decompensated heart failure with a first episode of atrial fibrillation (Afb) and rapid ventricular response. Due to his symptoms, it was decided to restore the sinus rhythm by applying electrical current cardioversion (EC). However, four days after discharge, the patient presented with anorexia, a recurrence of dyspnea, and weakness. ECG showed sinus rhythm. Laboratory tests revealed elevated serum urea and creatinine, decreased GFR, and severe anemia of hemolytic type. He remained non-oliguric. After a few days, the abnormal finding progressively resolved. On the occasion of this case report, we describe the literature data on the complications of EC in renal function and hematological profile. There is limited data on acute kidney injury occurrence and only one report on hemolytic anemia immediately after successful treatment of Afb by EC.