Hypokalemia-induced arrhythmia: a case series

Abstract

Potassium is one of the major intracellular electrolytes in the body and is normally maintained between 3.5 and 5.5 mEq/L. A serum K+ concentration below 3.5 mEq/L is considered hypokalemia. Electrolyte imbalances, particularly potassium disorders, are common in clinical practice. Potassium homeostasis plays a key role in regulating cell membrane excitability. Potassium is a major determinant of the electrophysiologic properties of the myocardial membrane, and it plays an important role in the occurrence of arrhythmia. Hypokalemia can lead to clinically significant, life-threatening arrhythmia. Typical electrocardiographic (ECG) features of hypokalemia include widespread ST depression, T wave inversion, and prominent U waves. However, hypokalemia may present with different types of arrhythmias as well. Herein, we present 3 cases presenting with hypokalemia-induced arrhythmias in different clinical scenarios with documented low potassium levels and treated with timely diagnosis and effective management.