From Misdiagnosis to Recognition: Torsades de Pointes Masquerading as Non-sustained Ventricular Tachycardia

Torsades de Pointes (TdP) is a form of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia often mischaracterized as benign non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT). This arrhythmia is uniquely associated with a prolonged QT interval and can be precipitated by factors such as electrolyte disturbances (e.g., hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia) or medications that block cardiac potassium channels, as well as congenital long QT syndromes. TdP is considered one of the most dangerous cardiac arrhythmias due to its propensity to degenerate into ventricular fibrillation and cause sudden cardiac death. Prompt recognition and appropriate management are therefore critical. We present the case of a 57-year-old female whose recurrent polymorphic ventricular tachycardia was initially misidentified as NSVT, leading to potentially harmful management. With this case report, we aim to increase awareness of TdP and emphasize the importance of accurate electrocardiogram interpretation in preventing misdiagnosis and iatrogenic injury.