Colchicine-Induced Cardiac Toxicity: Case Report

Case Report

Abstract

A 56-year-old woman with a medical history including hypertension, diabetes, depression, and gout was admitted to the emergency department after consuming 60 tablets of Colchicine, each containing 0.6 mg. The case involved significant deviations in vital signs, including an abnormally rapid heart rate and low blood pressure, indicating the widespread effects of Colchicine on the body. The patient’s physical examination revealed restlessness, a decreased Glasgow Coma Scale score, chest and abdominal findings, and laboratory tests revealed acute kidney injury, elevated liver enzymes, and metabolic abnormalities. The patient’s cardiac assessments revealed profound biventricular insufficiency. A point-of-care ultrasound revealed global left ventricle hypokinesia, providing crucial insights into cardiac function. The initial course of action involved intubation and administering activated charcoal to restrict colchicine absorption. The patient’s hemodynamics were stabilized through empiric sepsis treatment, vasopressors, and crystalloid fluids. Despite vigorous interventions, the patient’s condition worsened, resulting in unresponsive shock, failure of multiple organ systems, and slow heart rate arrest. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation attempts were unsuccessful, leading to the decision to stop resuscitative measures.

This case highlights the difficulties related to colchicine toxicity and emphasizes the importance of prompt identification and collaborative approaches involving multiple disciplines. The report contributes to the current literature by providing a deeper understanding of colchicine toxicity and its clinical challenges.