Torsades de Pointes

Over the past 25-30 years, deaths due to Torsades de Pointes (TdP) have resulted in numerous drugs being withdrawn from the market. However, nearly 200 drugs that may prolong the QT interval and cause TdP remain available. A number of drugs with the potential to cause TdP are among the top 200 most prescribed drugs in the US, whilst new information regarding TdP is emerging rapidly. The purpose of this book is to provide a comprehensive source of information on the topic of torsades de pointes (TdP), which is a life-threatening polymorphic ventricular tachyarrhythmia associated with QT interval prolongation on the electrocardiogram (ECG).

Torsades de Pointes provides a detailed, up-to-date and emerging information related to the epidemiology, drug culprits, mechanisms, risk factors, and methods of prevention and management of the life-threatening polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, also known as torsades de pointes. The book contains current knowledge, incorporating recent and cutting-edge advances in understanding of topics including inherited channelopathies and congenital LQTS
drugs that cause QT interval prolongation and TdP
non-drug causes of acquired QT interval prolongation and TdP
epidemiology of inherited and acquired TdP
morbidity and mortality associated with TdP, particularly in association with specific antimicrobials, antidepressants and antipsychotics, and methadone
cellular and molecular mechanisms of TdP, traditional and emerging risk factors for TdP
methods of prevention and risk reduction for TdP
and clinical management of patients with TdP.

This book is an essential reference for both clinicians and researchers - providing guidance for clinicians who care for patients receiving QT interval-prolonging drugs, as well as cutting edge information for scientists and investigators conducting research in the area.