Ventricular tachycardia due to perinatal asphyxia.

BACKGROUND: Perinatal asphyxia is known to precipitate myocardial dysfunction, rhythm abnormalities and congestive cardiac failure. CASE CHARACTERISTICS: A 2-day old neonate with perinatal asphyxia. OBSERVATION: He developed shock secondary to ventricular tachycardia, and required synchronized cardioversion for reversion of abnormal rhythm. OUTCOME: Reversal of arrhythmia leading to recovery. MESSAGE: Early identification and management of ventricular tachycardia in neonate with perinatal asphyxia can be life-saving.