Torsades de pointes physical examination

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

The physical exam during or directly after an episode of torsade de pointes, may reveal pallor and diaphoresis, loss of consciousness, and bradycardia followed by tachycardia.

Physical examination findings depends on the rate and duration of the episode and the effect on cerebral perfusion during the episode. The physical finding may include:

• Pallor and diaphoresis
• Bradycardia followed by tachycardia
• Loss of consciousness