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Treatment and the treatment process

Leukemia + arrhythmia

If you have a heart rhythm problem (arrhythmia), ECGs may be done more often during leukaemia treatment.

Last updated: ~1 min read
An irregular rhythm
Figure 1.An irregular rhythm.

01Short answer

In arrhythmia the heart beats too fast, too slow or irregularly. Some leukaemia medicines, antibiotics and antifungals can affect heart rhythm (the QT interval). Potassium and magnesium also affect rhythm, so blood tests and ECGs are monitored.

02Simple explanation

Tell both doctors. Your haematologist and your heart doctor.

Medicine list. Bring it to every visit.

Your own medicines. Do not stop them unless told.

Symptoms. Report changes early.

03Scientific explanation

QT interval: a time measured on the ECG; some medicine combinations can lengthen it.

Electrolytes: diarrhoea and vomiting can lower potassium and magnesium.

04What happens in the body?

Arrhythmia and leukaemia

People with arrhythmia can receive leukaemia treatment; the plan is simply adjusted.

What may change

Treatment and arrhythmia can affect each other, so check-ups may be more frequent.

The heart’s electrical paths
Figure 2.The heart’s electrical paths.

Two teams together

When your haematologist and heart doctor share information, treatment is safer.

A pulse point
Figure 3.A pulse point — Leukemia + arrhythmia

05Treatment with arrhythmia

Four steps.

Tell — Both doctors.1TellBoth doctors.
List — Medicines.2ListMedicines.
Checks — As planned.3ChecksAs planned.
Symptoms — Report early.4SymptomsReport early.

06What to watch for

SignWhat it may beWhat to do
Strong palpitationsRhythm problemCall your team
Dizziness, faintingRhythm problem103/112
Prolonged diarrhoea or vomitingElectrolyte lossTell your team

07Key terms

ECG
A recording of the heart’s electrical activity.
QT interval
A time measured on the ECG.
Haematologist
Doctor for blood diseases.
Medicine list
All medicines and supplements.

08Key points

  • Inform both doctors.
  • Keep your medicine list updated.
  • Do not stop your own medicines yourself.
  • Ask before any new medicine.
  • For food, see the general rules (“Handwashing: the simplest protection” and “Eggs and dairy: safe choices”).
  • Keep your check-ups.

09Frequently asked questions

Why so many ECGs?

Because some medicines can affect rhythm.

Is leukaemia treatment possible?

Often yes; the plan may be adjusted.

Should I keep my own medicines?

Yes, unless a doctor says otherwise.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Why so many ECGs?

  2. Is leukaemia treatment possible?

  3. Should I keep my own medicines?

My questions

12Sources

  1. MedlinePlus. Arrhythmia
  2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Drug Interactions: What You Should Know
  3. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Side Effects of Cancer Treatment
  4. NICE. Having IV fluid therapy (Intravenous fluid therapy in adults in hospital)
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Urinary and Bladder Problems and Cancer Treatment
  6. MedlinePlus. Urinalysis
  7. MedlinePlus. Urine 24-hour volume
  8. MedlinePlus. Creatinine blood test
  9. MedlinePlus. Furosemide
  10. MedlinePlus. Potassium test
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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